Chatfield Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting …7A8298AF-61FA-481A...Amundson entered a motion,...

Chatfield Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Agenda

Monday, November 2, 2015

7:00 p.m. City Council Chambers

Thurber Community Building

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I. Planning & Zoning – November 2, 2015 7:00 p.m.

II. Regular Meeting - Consider and Approve the Meeting Agenda (pg. 1)

III. Approve Prior Meeting Minutes (pg. 2-5)

IV. Conditional Use Permit Review (2015) (pg. 6-11)

V. Park & Recreation Plan Update (pg. 12-75)

a. Additional Sections for Review, Trails, Maintenance, & Implementation

VI. Workshop Opportunity - Maintaining Small Town Character (pg. 76)

VII. Adjourn

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CITY OF CHATFIELD PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES

Monday, August 03, 2015

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Members Present: Lee Amundson, Terry Bradt, Bob Cole, Dave Frank, and Mary Peterson Members Absent: Jerry Barry, and Dan Tuohy Others Present: Kristi Clarke and Kay Coe

I. Planning & Zoning – August 3, 2015 -

II. Public Hearing – Chatfield Center for the Arts Rezone from R-1 to B-1. Chair Bradt opened the public hearing at 7:00 p.m.

With no public present Bradt called for a motion to close the public hearing.

Amundson entered a motion, with a second by Frank, to close the public hearing at 7:01. All ayes, motion carried.

III. Regular Meeting – Consider and Approve the Meeting Agenda – Chair Bradt called the regular meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Frank entered a motion, with a second by Peterson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried

IV. Approve Prior Meeting Minutes Amundson entered a motion, with a second by Cole, to approve the June 1, 2015 Meeting Minutes as presented. All ayes, motion carried.

V. Discussion and Decision for the Chatfield Center for the Arts Rezone Request Clarke provided an overview of the rezone request stating she had mailed letters to 45 surrounding properties, posting the request in the newspaper. She had received one missed phone call, but no other feedback. Clarke then reviewed the request by reading the information provided in the agenda packet;

Proposed Zone Amendment: Change the Chatfield Center for the Arts city block located at 405 Main Street South from R‐1 (Low Density Residential) to B‐1 (General Commercial).

Current Land Use: This block has a land use designation of Historic Downtown Commercial. The Comprehensive Plan and was updated and approved by City Council on March 9, 2015.

History of Uses: The Chatfield Center for the Arts was purchased by the Chatfield Economic Development Authority from the Chatfield Public School District in 2010. Prior 2010, the site was used as an elementary school which included the Potter Auditorium. Potter Auditorium was built in the 1930’s and is a historic landmark of national significance. When the auditorium was coupled as an elementary school use, R‐1 was an appropriate zone. However, when the new Elementary School was completed and the old school building was vacated, the Chatfield EDA began working towards renovating the building and expanding its cultural uses in the auditorium as well as renovating and renting out other spaces in the buildings for miscellaneous private and public events. Most of the uses that now occur in the Chatfield Center for the Arts could be best described as cultural and commercial.

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Surrounding Land Uses: This block is considered to be a critical part of the downtown area for the City of Chatfield and shares the same land use as the rest of the downtown area of Historic Downtown Commercial. City Park located just north of the Center for the Arts block and has an Open Space land use. Low density residential land uses are located on the west and south and a commercial land use is located just east of the proposed block.

Long‐Range Planning Guidance – 2015 Comprehensive Plan The Center for the Arts was mentioned as part of the Community Facilities on page 11 of the Comprehensive Plan as well as addressed in several areas of the Goals and Policies section.

General Goal #1 ‐ Encourage orderly and harmonious development through the enforcement of sound plans and implementation programs.

With the attached policy which states – “Improve the overall land use relationships throughout the City by addressing specific issues through zoning ordinance amendments and other means”.

Business & Economic Development Goal #4 - Support and promote a vibrant downtown commercial area that serves the Chatfield Center for the Arts, tourists, and residents and

With the attached policy which states – “Promote and protect the synergy of the City’s downtown and recreational areas through consistent application of land use regulations and education of the development community.”

Recreation & Culture Goal #4 – To promote development and display of the fine arts to support theatrical groups by promoting Potter Auditorium as a home to a theater group.

Rezoning the Center for the Arts block aligns directly with Goal #1 in the Comprehensive Plan by bring the Center for the Arts block’s Historic Downtown Commercial Land Use designation into alignment with a commercial zone.

Rezoning the block will also support and promote the downtown commercial area which is used by tourists and residents.

Finally, rezoning the block will allow for greater flexibility to display fine arts and to better support future theatrical groups that might utilize the Auditorium.

B‐1 Zoning District Purpose. The B‐1 district is intended to encourage the continuation of a viable downtown and concentrated commercial areas by allowing retail, service, office, and entertainment facilities as well as public and semipublic uses.

Staff Recommendation: This block should be rezoned to better align the commercial land use with a commercial zone, to further promote and encourage downtown commercial areas, and to align the current commercial and cultural uses that are facilitated in the block.

Cole entered a motion, with a second by Peterson, to forward the following resolution to City Council for their discussion and decision. All ayes, motion carried.

To Rezone the Chatfield Center for the Arts Block located at 405 Main Street South from R‐1 to B‐1

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WHEREAS, the property addressed 405 Main Street South is currently zoned R‐1 which does allow public and private schools but since 2010 has not been used as a public school; and

WHEREAS, the existing commercial and cultural uses will not alter the external façade of the building or the site beyond the approved building renovations; and

WHEREAS, the proposed property has a land use designation of Historic Downtown Commercial; and

WHEREAS, The Planning Commission provides the following findings: a) The Chatfield Economic Development Authority has owned and maintained the block since 2010 b) Allowing this rezone will continue to protect the health, safety & general welfare of the community and neighbors use and enjoyment of property and their property values. c) The general commercial zone is intended to encourage the continuation of a viable downtown and concentrated commercial areas by allowing retail, service, office, and entertainment facilities as well as public and semipublic uses. d) The proposed commercial and cultural uses are consistent with the City’s Comprehensive Plan, both in land use designations and goals and policies. e) Parking, public access, and city water and sewer services are available to the site. f) The historic building will not be significantly altered to allow expanded uses allowed in the B‐1 zone so it will have a minimal visual impact to the neighborhood while allowing an expanded use of commercial and cultural opportunities for the block.

NOW THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, the Planning Commission recommends that the rezoning of the Chatfield Center for the Arts block located at 405 Main Street South be forwarded to City Council for their review and decision.

VI. Park & Recreation Plan Update Clarke provided an updated by reading through the updated version of the Park and Recreation Plan including the Concept Plan for the Regional Park stating that The Region Park Designation application was resubmitted in June with the Draft Plan. The hope is to hear back from the state review agency yet this year.

Clarke will continue to work on updating the plan to include the other city parks as well as including a more accurate visual of the Chatfield Center for the Arts Site Plan Clarke asked the Commission to drive through the parks and be thinking about objectives and goal.s

VII. Adjourn Clarke mentioned that the September meeting date falls on the observed Labor Day Holiday. The Commission concluded that they would plan on meeting in September only if a request came in that required their action, otherwise they would resume with the normal October meeting. Peterson entered a motion with a second by Amundson to adjourn at 7:36 pm. All ayes, motion carried.

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____________________________ ______________________________ Terry Bradt, Chair Kay Coe, Finance Director

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Conditional Use Permit- Review 2015

A review of all approved Conditional Use Permits for the City of Chatfield was

initiated in September 2015. The following is a summary of this review:

Seventeen Conditional Use Permits, dating from May of 2000 to March of 2014 were

reviewed. The attached “Summary Review” provides the dates when these permits were

approved, their proposed use, the conditions placed on the permit, and a summary

statement generated after an in-office and site visit were completed.

Conditional Use Permits in Compliance:

Bernard's Day Car Center (Learn & Play)

Bernard’s First Preliminary Plat & CUP

Chatfield – Booster Station

Chatfield School District, 227 – Storage Facility

Chatfield – Water Tower

Chosen Valley Care Center

Coyote Bar Apartments

Coyote Saloon

Griffin Four-plex Apartments (The property was sold as a commercial use in 2014 before the

property was converted to an apartment)

Hidden Valley Estates

McClimon - Open-Air Display

Oakenwald Terrace - Bed & Breakfast

Orchard Ridge Townhomes

Peterson – Lower Level Apartment

Price-Troska/Krusemark - Retreat/Rental Home (The home was sold to a single family home

owner in 2012.)

Simpson - Storage Facility

WIT Boyz Inc. – Automotive Service and open-air display

City of Chatfield 21 SE Second Street Chatfield, MN 55923 Phone 507-867-3810 Fax 507-867-909.

For Details, Contact: Kristi Clarke City of Chatfield Phone (507) 867-3810

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Conditional Use Permit Summary Review 2015

9/14/15 1- Bernards Day Care Center - (Learn & Play Daycare Center) Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 5/2/2005, Council approved on 5/23/2005 Use: To construct a daycare facility on the corner of Mill Creek Road and Highway 30. Address: 236 Millcreek Road NW Conditions: 1. A 10’ easement be provided along the southerly property line between lots 9 and 10. 2. A hedge to be planted to screen the chain link fence from the neighboring property on the south from the south edge of the building to the east end of the fence. 3. Only security lighting is placed on the south side of the building. 4. 25 designated off street parking spaces be provided for employees and event parking 5. A 5’ concrete sidewalk to be installed from the SW corner of lot 9 to Hwy 30. 6. The building be constructed of similar style and color of the neighboring townhomes. 7. The building be a single story structure. Summary completed on: 9/11/15. The City is still working on determining if a connecting sidewalk along Mill Creek Road is possible from Division Street north to the Learn & Play Daycare site. Until that study is complete, Condition 5 will not be required. All other conditions are in compliance. 2- Bernard’s First Plat & CUP Approvals: P & Z recommended approval on 2/4/2002, Council approved on 2/11/2002 Use: To construct residential units on lots 2-9 as a Planned-Unit-Development. Address: Bernards First Plat Conditions: 1. An 8” watermain must be between lot 1 and lot 2, Block 1 is located within a utility easement 2. Access easement to Lot 3, Block 1 is 45’ wide 3. The 40’ utility esmt. located on the north side of Division Street needs to be extended to include the 8” in-place sanitary sewer. 4. An agreement between City and Mr. Bernard to clarify the current and future status of Lot 3 Block 1 5. An esmt. needs to added in the NW corner of lot 2 6. Access control need to be in place from Division St. to Skippy’s first entrance and access needs to be controlled for 80’ on Mill Creek Rd. to allow for four to five car stacking. Summary: All six conditions were completed during the final plat which was approved on 3/11/2002. In compliance. 3- Chatfield – Booster Station Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 5/5/08, Council approved on 5/12/08 Use: To build a water utility pump house at the southern end of Outlot C in the Hilltop Estates Addition First Plat Address: Hillside Drive Conditions: No listed Conditions. In compliance. 4- Chatfield School District, Storage Facility Hillside Elementary School Site Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 08/24/2009, Council approved on 08/24/2009. Use: To construct a post-frame storage facility that is 40' x 80' or approximately 3,200

square feet in size with an approximate roof height of 24'.

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Address: 11555 Hillside Drive Conditions: No listed conditions. In compliance 5- Chatfield – Water Tower Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 5/5/08, Council approved on 5/12/08 Use: To build a water tower within Outlot B in the Hilltop Estates Addition First Plat Address: 10208 Hillside Drive Conditions: No listed Conditions. In compliance. 6- Chosen Valley Care Center Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 5/2/05, Council approved on 5/9/05 Use: To build an assisted living care facility Address: 1102 Liberty Street Conditions:

1. Install a Knox Box on the property to gain access without resident or management assistance. A Knox Box was installed and the Fire Marshal has the key.

Summary: In compliance. 7- Coyote Bar Apartments Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 4/4/04, Council approved on 4/11/05 Use: To develop apartments Address: 15 SE Second Street. Conditions: 1. Installation of Knox box on the property to provide the Fire Department and Police Department the ability to gain access to the building without resident or management assistance in the case of an emergency. 2. Installation of 8 designated and sufficiently signed off-street parking spaces for Coyote Bar Apartment residents only. The management of these spaces is the responsibility of the property owners. 3. Sufficient garbage management system that provides complete screening from view, and containment to prevent any loose materials. 4. Exterior dark sky lighting for security purposes that meets the approval of the Police Chief. 5. No advertising signage on the exterior of the building or in the apartment windows. 6. When required, apartment for rent sign limited to approximately 11 x 17 in the Coyote Club entrance area. 7. Payment in full of applicable water and sewer hook up fees based on a single family residential equivalency factor for the added demand that will be created by the eight apartments, over and above the demand that was previously made by the commercial use on those two floors. 8. Require the use of a six months lease for apartment rentals. Summary completed on: 9/11/15– All conditions are in compliance. 8- Coyote Bar Saloon Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 10/4/2004, Council approved on 10/11/2004 Use: To open a saloon/bar Address: 15 SE 2nd Street. Conditions:

1. The on-site garbage and recycling area/containers be completely enclosed/screened from view from neighboring properties.

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2. Adequate dark sky lighting be added to the parking area to meet security requirements, as approved by the City.

Summary completed on 9/11/15– All conditions are in compliance. 9- Griffin Apartments Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 3/3/14, Council approved on 3/10/14 Use: To use the existing Post Office site as a four-unit apartment Address: 15 Third Street SE Conditions: 1. One parking stall per apartment (four total stalls) must be maintained and available for residents as

shown on the site plan at all times during the year. Parking is not allowed in the alley. 2. A sidewalk must be installed from the existing sidewalk along 3rd Street to Unit 4. 3. A landscape buffer, which can be include grass and trees/shrubs must remain in place along the

northern edge of the property line. 4. All sidewalks, landscaping, and parking areas must be seasonally managed and maintained. 5. Upon the issuance of a CUP, the City shall require an annual inspection of the building for

compliance of the CUP. Summary completed on: 9/11/15– The building was never converted to a residential use but was sold and is currently used as a commercial use, therefore, the five conditions are not required at this time.

10- Hidden Valley Estates Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 9/5/2000, Council approved on 9/11/2000 Use: To construct three twin home structures to be planned as a Planned Unit

Development. Address: 1018 Main Street South Conditions: No listed conditions. In compliance. 11- McClimon Open-air display Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 1/4/2010, Council approved on 1/11/2010 Use: To use the property as an open-air display use Address: 7 Main Street North Conditions:

1. No access will be allowed on (Main Street) Highway 52 and public access from Spring Street is discouraged.

2. The property should be properly maintained and remain in compliance withal of the codes within the Chatfield City Code.

3. All sale items mush be displayed within the property. 4. All sale items displayed must be in good repair. 5. Only temporary signs will be allowed on the property and the property owner must follow the Sign

Ordinance. 6. All sale items should be at least 5' from the southern property line to ensure that the viewers of the

equipment do not go on the residential neighbor's property. 7. No sale items can obstruct the view from the residential driveway by maintaining a 15' clear vision

triangle. Summary completed on: 9/11/15– All conditions in compliance 12- Oakenwald Terrace Bed & Breakfast Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 6/2/2003, Council approved on 6/9/2003

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Use: To operate a Bed & Breakfast establishment Address: 218 Winona Street SE Conditions: 1. Six sleeping rooms 2. The availability of five off street parking spaces for guests, one of which will be handicap accessible. Summary completed on: 9/11/15– All conditions are in compliance. 13- Orchard Ridge Townhomes Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 5/1/2000, Council approved on 5/8/2000 Use: To develop townhomes as a Planned Unit Development. Orchard Ridge Townhomes are

located on 6.3 acres of land on the north side of Highway 30 and west of Mill Creek Road. Conditions: 1. The developer will plant a minimum of 1.5 trees per living unit created 2. A temporary turnaround will be constructed at the north end of the street Summary completed on: 9/11/15- All conditions are in compliance. 14- Peterson – Lower Level Apartment Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 09/03/2013, Council approved on 09/10/2013 Use: A residential use located below street-level Address: 205 Main Street South Conditions:

1. One parking stall per apartment (three total stalls) must be maintained and available for residents adjacent to the rear of the building.

2. The street level portion of the building must be maintained as a commercial use. 3. Access to the lower level apartment must utilize the rear entrance adjacent to the alley so that lower

level residents do not conflict with the commercial use. 4. Upon the issuance of a CUP, the City shall require an annual inspection of the building for

compliance of the CUP. Summary completed on: 9/11/15- All conditions are in compliance.

15- Price-Troska/Krusemark Rental Home Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 4/2/2007, Council approved on 4/9/2007 Use: To use the existing home as a retreat/rental space for groups or individuals to work on

various hobbies or projects on weekend and potentially weekdays. Address: 615 South Main Street Conditions:

1. No more than eight (8) guests can rent or occupy the home at any one time. 2. Four (4) parking stalls must be provided. The parking provided shall be maintained so that it is accessibility and usable at all time during the year, when the home is occupied. Parking is not

Allowed in the alley. Guests must park on the concrete pad or in the garage before using on-street parking.

2. A sign relating to the rented home shall comply with the sign ordinance. 3. No alcoholic beverages may be sold to guests, and cooking within the home shall be limited to the

kitchen of the home. 4. No retail or other sales shall be permitted unless they are clearly incidental.

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5. Upon the issuance of a CUP, the City shall require an annual inspection and compliance for the CUP.

6. Leases shall be limited to 2 weeks. 7. The exterior of the home and yard must be maintained throughout the year by complying with all

applicable snow removal and summer maintenance standards within the City Code. 8. Activity relating to the principle business use shall be contained within the house. Summary completed on: 9/11/15- All conditions are in compliance. The property was sold as a single family residence in late 2012. However, the approved CUP goes with the property and not a land owner so another owner could use the property as a retreat/rental space in the future with the same nine (9) conditions that were placed on the property in 2007.

16- Simpson Property - Post-Frame storage shed construction Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 09/07/09, Council approved on 09/14/09 Use: To construct a post-frame storage facility that is approximately 600 square feet in the rear yard of an R-1 zoned (single-family) property. Condition: 1. The siding must be constructed with a material that does not exceed 12" in panel width.

Summary: Siding has been installed and is in compliance. 17- WIT BOYZ Inc. – Automotive Service and Open Air Display Approvals: P & Z recommended approval 06/07/10, Council approved on 06/14/10 Use: To use the property as an automotive service and open-air display land use. Address: 5 & 15 Main Street North Condition:

1. The property should be properly maintained and remain in compliance with all of the codes within the Chatfield City Code.

2. All sale items must be displayed within the property and be in good repair. 3. No additional accesses will be allowed along Main Street and public access from Spring Street is

discouraged. 4. No parking or commercial property shall be located within the public right-of-ways along Spring Street

and Main Street and creating a stronger visual separation of private property and right-of-way is encouraged.

5. An eight foot landscape buffer is required along the northern property line of 15 Main Street North if the single family home at 15 Main Street North is removed and commercial uses are expanded into the site while the existing single family home located at 23 Main Street North remains. See Section 113-265 (e) for a more detailed landscape description.

Summary completed on: 9/11/15– All conditions are in compliance. The home north of Wit Boyz has been removed. The owners have maintained an 8’ landscape buffer (grass area) along the north side of their property and the home at 23 Main Street North.

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Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan 2015

Draft Submitted to City of Chatfield, MN November 2015

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Master Plan Summary

Purpose and Direction of the Plan Comprehensive Plan

Community Vision

Park and Recreation Goals Natural Resources

Master Plan Summary & Introduction

Open Space in Chatfield

Parks Recreational Trails Lost Creek Trail Mill Creek & Root River Corridor

Golf Course School

Park System Goals

City Parks Map & Inventory

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Executive Summary Purpose and Direction of the Plan Parks, trails and open spaces provide communities with multiple benefits. The purpose of this Master Plan is to guide Chatfield in planning and maintaining its existing parks and future facilities while meeting the needs of all of its residents. Some of the benefits of completing this study and implementing its recommendations include; economic, health and safety, and social. The Chatfield Park & Recreational Master Plan is a major long‐range plan to help the City acquire and maintain a complete park system consisting of neighborhood, community, and regional parks that will serve the residents as well as draw regional visitors. This Plan has been designed to help implement the City’s Comprehensive Plan to be compatible with other planning efforts such as the Thoroughfare Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and Subdivision Codes. The Chatfield Park & Recreation Plan should serve as a guide for addressing issues which are important to the City now, while still allowing for flexibility in making decisions on individual projects, as long as they are consistent with the Plan’s goals. In the future, as changes in economic or social conditions occur, updating the Plan should become a priority. The Plan should be updated every five to ten years in order to address future issues in a consistent and proactive manner. On March 9, 2015 the City of Chatfield adopted an update to their Comprehensive Plan. During this year‐long public process, a community survey among other outreach sessions were completed. From this public input, a Community Vision was generated which included the following strong recreational statement which in turn, directed the following goals and policies:

Community Vision: Chatfield Minnesota… a regional recreation destination known for dynamic and abundant public outdoor spaces that draws regional visitors to experience art, culture, and family activities for all age groups. Where a multi‐use trail system is used by residents and visitors to connect neighborhoods, recreational facilities, commercial districts, and other cities.

Comprehensive Plan Goals & Policies Park & Recreation Goals

Goal 1 To develop and maintain attractive parks and recreational open spaces for all seasons that are safe and healthful.

Policy Maintain an equitable distribution of parks and open space throughout the

community with sufficient facilities tailored to suit the residents they serve. Policy Provide both passive and active recreational areas.

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Policy Encourage and promote a diverse range of recreational activities for every season.

Policy The City should work with local and regional organizations to encourage tourism. Policy Continue to develop indoor facilities for recreational purposes and prioritize

activities requiring improvements. Policy Locate and develop acceptable sites for short‐term campers. Policy Expand the Joint Powers Board to fill the gap between the park sites and how

they are used, improve communications and direction for parks, equipment, and manpower necessary for a more efficient and cohesive park & recreation system for the entire city.

Goal 2 Develop a continuous, interconnected, and comprehensive system of bikeways and trails. To connect to local schools, parks, neighborhoods, and other communities.

Policy Construct pedestrian and bicycle facilities as shown on the Trail and Sidewalk

Plans. Policy Enhance maintenance of all sidewalks and trails, and improve maintenance

strategies. Policy Increase use and safety of the trail and sidewalk network. Policy Increase public awareness and education related to sidewalks and trails. Policy Continue to obtain easements for future trails along the Mill Creek and Root River

corridors.

Goal 3 Develop and market Groen and Mill Creek Park as a regional recreational area with unique amenities and recreational facilities.

Policy Mill Creek and Groen Park’s designation as a trout stream should be recognized as

a regional attraction and supported in the redevelopment of those areas adjacent to the creek.

Policy Maximize the recreational opportunities within the existing parks and semi‐public spaces within the community whenever possible.

Policy Utilize local service clubs and other organizations to assist

Goal 4 Promote development and display of the fine arts.

Policy Promote the Bandtown USA theme which reflects band activities since the 1880’s and continue support of band concerts in the park.

Policy Support theatrical groups by promoting Potter Auditorium as a home to a theater group.

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Natural Resources

Goal 1 Promote land management practices that protect the natural resources in the City including streams, rivers, wetlands, woodland, floodplains, and bluffs.

Policy Identify and manage the development of sensitive areas, such as floodplain,

hillsides, etc., through special zoning or easement control. Policy Consult State and Federal natural resource agencies on proposals where soil,

slope, sewage disposal and other environmental concerns exist. Policy Carefully regulate urban or rural development on steep bluffs to minimize soil

erosion. Policy Encourage alternative stormwater management techniques that reuse infiltration

and reduce infrastructure costs. Policy Define and preserve all national, state and regionally significant natural and

scientific resources in the City. Policy Preserve and enhance the natural amenities within each city park.

Goal 2 Create an urban forest management plan that would create standards for tree selection, installation, maintenance and removal within the park system including boulevard trees throughout the community.

Policy Reduce the impact and prohibit the planting invasive plant species within the

City’s landscape.

Existing Conditions An on‐site evaluation of existing parks and amenities provided the basis for formulating future improvement recommendations. Each existing park and open space facility was inventoried in two steps. The first step was to visit the park and document amenities and existing conditions; the second was to determine size, park classification, and what amenities and structures each site included. See Section ?? for the complete Parks Inventory and Map.

Parks - In 2014, the City of Chatfield had approximately 2,815 residents as estimated by the Minnesota State Demographic Center. The current city limits include approximately 1,660 acres of land, 64 acres of this area is dedicated as nine city owned parks. These parks include; two Community Parks, Mill Creek and Groen Park, six neighborhood parks, City Park, Floyd Mohawk Park, Jaycee Park, Shade Oak Park, Lonestone Park, and Hilltop Park, one Mini‐Park, Hendricks Park. Recreational Trails– The City’s trails map shows three city trail areas including, trails through Mill Creek and Groen Park north to Highway 30, a trail surrounding Chatfield High School, and a trail on the south side of Hillside Drive from Highway 52 to the Elementary School. A proposed creek trail will extend the city trails in Mill Creek Park northward beyond city limits and from Groen Park southward along the Mill Creek and Root River corridor to County Road 5 and beyond. The plan also proposes to re‐stripe a portion of the existing rights‐of‐way along Division Street and Third Street to connect the

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downtown areas to the trails system. Longer jogging, biking, and running trails starting within the city limits loop or extend 15‐20 miles outside of the city. Parking is available at Mill Creek and Groen Park, along public roadways, or at public school grounds for recreational users.

Lost Creek Trail- The Lost Creek Hiking Trail was built in 2011 and is maintained by the Bluff Country Hiking Club, a private organization. The trail runs approximately 6 miles one way with trailheads in Groen Park and Ninebark Road. The trail is open to the public for hiking and snowshoeing only. Mill Creek and Root River Corridor – Approximately two miles of Mill Creek and 0.6 miles of the Root River lies within the Chatfield city limits. These areas provide residents and visitors with recreational uses such as fishing and canoeing. From Orion Township south through the City of Chatfield, the MnDNR has access to more than 116 acres of angling fishing easement totally in over 42,000 linear feet of streambank. See the Regional Public Fishing Access Map. Golf Course - The Chosen Valley Country Club owns approximately 41 acres which is developed into a nine‐hole golf course located at 1801 South Main Street. School - In addition, the Chatifled School District owns and maintains approximately 101 acres of land including the Chatfield Junior‐Senior High School located at 205 Union Street and the Elementary School 11555 Hillside Drive. Their facilities include several playgrounds, softball fields, a baseball field, football field, track, soccer fields, and four tennis courts. The Savanna Spring Nature Area is also located within the high school property. The combined acreage of city park land, public school land, the Chosen Valley Country Club, and other public facilities within the city limits of Chatfield is approximately 409 acres of public/semi‐public recreational or open space or approximately 25% of the total acreage within the city. Existing Challenges – Following completing a parks and trails inventory process and analyzing interest group and public input, the following challenges have been identified:

Funding

Most parks require maintenance

Lack of a connected trail system

Highway 52 (Main Street) carries high volumes of traffic and creates a barrier for pedestrians

Many neighborhoods are isolated from key destinations

The Park & Recreation Plan Process – Citizen Participation ‐ Citizen participation is critical to ensure that the goals and objective statements in the plan represent the actual needs and desires of the Community. To promote citizen participation, staff organized interest group meetings with the following groups:

Chatfield Pubic School District – Community Ed. & Superintendent & Ele. School Principal

Chosen Valley Golf Course ‐ 867‐4305 Superintendent ‐ Ron Rucker

Lost Creek Trail (Bluff Country Hiking Club)

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ATV Trail – Contact???

Chatfield Public Works Director – Brian Burkholder

Center for the Arts – Contact?? (Joel Young)

Chatfield EDA – (Chris Giesen) SRTS

Savanna Spring Nature Area – Tim Gossman (Root River State Bank – email)

MnDNR ‐ Vaughan Snook – Lanesboro Office

Chatfield Planning & Zoning Commission – advisory

Chatfield City Council ‐ advisory

Chatfield Music Lending Library – Chatfield Brass Band

RV Interests ‐ ?? Open House to be scheduled Public Hearing to be scheduled Review and Decision from City Council

Plan Format – The Park & Recreation Master Plan outlines goals, objectives, recommendations and a park inventory and map for each city park. The park maps show what recreational elements exist in the parks today and recommended changes for the future.

Park System Goal: To create a connected, sustainable park system that balances the resident’s needs for natural areas with their needs for active recreation facilities. Objectives-

Preserve and enhance the natural amenities within each park

Promote the Mill Creek Corridor as a regional trout stream

Create more opportunities for residents to fish in the Mill Creek Corridor

Promote dark‐sky lighting throughout the park system

Use sustainable methods for construction features and environmentally friendly techniques for turf management practices in the park system

Strive to make all parks visually and physically accessible to all residents Recommendations –

Create a common set of park elements – benches, trash/recycle containers, ornamental lights, etc., that would unify the park system

Minimize the use of chemicals, pesticides and fertilizers of turf areas and use more environmentally friendly products such as compost

Create an urban forest management plan that would create standards for tree selection, installation, maintenance and removal within the park system including boulevard trees throughout the community

Create a plan and guidelines for buckthorn and honeysuckle removal

Install street trees in all available boulevard areas within the park system

Remove or treat all ash trees to prevent the spread of Emerald Ash Bore

Relocated the RV Park in Shady Oak Park to the new Regional Park as shown on the Concept Plan

Install plastic bag dispensers to encourage people to pick up after their dogs

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Total Parkland Mini Parks .33 ac. Hendricks Park (Total Parkland) Neighborhood Parks 1.9 ac. City Park 1.78 ac. Floyd Mohawk Park 3.61 ac. Hillside Park 1.04 ac. Lonestone Park 1.41 ac. Shady Oak Park 9.74 acres Total Parkland

Community Parks 32.0 ac. Millcreek Park 13.92 ac. Groen Park 67.83 ac. Perkin’s Park (Future Regional Parkland) 109.75 acres Total Parkland

Public Schools 55 ac. Elementary School Site 46.5 ac. Jaycee Park/High School/SSNA 101.50 acres Total Semi‐Public School Land Private Recreation 41 ac. Chosen Valley Country Club Fishing Easements 35.7 ac. Total Angling Easements 11,750 linear feet Existing Streambank Access 900 linear feet Proposed Streambank Access 12,650 linear feet Total Streambank Access Trails 1.53 Miles Mill Creek & Groen Park Existing Trails ?? Community Trails??? 6.35 Miles Lost Creek Trails 2.43 Miles Proposed Trails within the Regional Park 308.33 Ac. Total public/semi-public recreation area, easements,

and trails

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Classification of Chatfield’s Parks The City of Chatfield classifies each park based on use and the users the park serves that was developed by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) to be used as a resource to describe most types of parks. These standards are meant to be modified to address a specific agency and the unique types of parks that a city has to offer. Each park was classified under the category that met the broadest definition of amenities provided and the users it serves. The Chatfield classification system includes: a Regional Park, Community Parks, Neighborhood Parks, Mini Parks, Private Recreation, and Public Schools. Mini Neighborhood Parks Mini parks generally address specific recreation or open space needs. This type of park is usually created of a single lot or irregular piece of land and is intended to serve users directly adjacent to it. Often these parks are too small for recreational use but sometimes may accommodate a small playground and places to sit outside. Mini parks can add value to the adjacent private properties if they fit their surroundings and have desirable uses. Service Area: Typically the service area for a mini park is less than (0.25) one square mile. Park Size: Typically these parks cover less than one acre and accommodate no more than one or two users. Often such parks provide only benches or picnic tables. NRPA standards call for between 0.25 to 0.5 acres of neighborhood parkland per 1,000 residents. Ranging in size from 0.25 acres to 1.4 acres. Hendricks Park is .33 acres and contains a bench for 1‐2 people and would fall into the standardized NRPA guidelines. Neighborhood Parks Neighborhood parks are considered the basic unit of a community’s park system and provide a recreational and social focus for residential areas. These parks desirably provide space for informal active and passive recreational activities. Park space is provided for recreational for recreational activities such as field games, court games, picnic facilities and playground equipment. Neighborhood parks may contain amenities that serve the community as a whole. An example of this is an athletic field that is used by an athletic organization. Service Area: The typically service radius for neighborhood parks is between (0.25) one quarter and (0.5) one half mile. A neighborhood park should be easily and safely accessed by the neighborhood it serves, uninterrupted by major roads or any other barrier. Park Size: Neighborhood parks must be a size adequate enough to accommodate facilities that successfully serve a neighborhood. Such parks should contain at least 3 acres if possible. Of this total acreage, 2‐3 acres should be relatively flat open space area suitable for a number of activities, including “pick up” ball games and room to run or throw a ball. NRPA standards call for between 1 to 2 acres of neighborhood parkland per 1,000 residents. Chatfield currently has about 9.74 acres of neighborhood parkland. This translates into 3.74 acres per 1,000 residents.

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Community Parks These types of parks typically include areas of diverse use and environmental quality. Such parks meet community‐based recreation needs, may preserve significant natural areas and often include areas suited for intense recreational facilities. These parks may contain significant athletic fields, water features, walking paths, picnic facilities and various other active and passive amenities that meet community needs and site sustainability. Community parks often serve as a venue for community athletic organizations or other recreational or social based community gatherings. Service Are: Community parks generally serve multiple neighborhoods and depending on amenities provided, they are often intended to serve the entire community. The typically service radius of a community park is approximately 0.5 miles to 1.5 miles. Park Size: Most often a community park should consist of 10 or more acres. Although, special amenities that provide for the entire community may be located on smaller sites but still serve as a community park. Chatfield has two existing community parks; Mill Creek and Groen Park, and one proposed community park; Perkin’s Park. Mill Creek Park is 32 acres, Groen Park is 13.92 acres, and the proposed Perkin’s Park has a total of 67.83 acres between the Root River and Mill Creek floodplain. Both Mill Creek and Groen Park are located along Mill Creek. Mill Creek contains many athletic fields, and hard surface courts, and a hockey and ice rink. Groen Park features a more open space design for family‐oriented play. Perkin’s park will have a combination of uses including; RV campground sites, perimeter trails along the Root River and Mill Creek, natural areas, and fishing. NRPA guidelines for community park areas call for 5 to 8 acres per 1,000 residents. With a total of 109.75 acres of community park space, Chatfield currently provides for 39 acres per 1,000 residents, which satisfies the NRPA requirements for the current population. Public School Public schools provide many recreational opportunities for Chatfield, particularly when located in areas not served by a city park. The playgrounds, open space, athletic fields, basketball and tennis courts at school often function as neighborhood parks and attract area residents. Though these are not owned by the city, school facilities can complement the municipal park system and can help Chatfield meet the NRPA guidelines for specific types of recreational facilities. The Elementary School and High School properties have been included in the inventories and City‐wide park maps. Regional Parks Regional parks are not limited to recreational facilities but are a destination that attracts users on a regional level. Even if recreational amenities are not provided; sites categorized as a regional destination or regional park are important community elements. Providing opportunities to access these sites through a recreational non‐motorized means of transportation should be explored to expand the communities’ access to additional recreational opportunities. This can be provided through a cohesive local trail system that successfully connects with and utilizes the trails. The existing trail system that connects Mill Creek to Groen Park and the future perimeter trail within the Perkin’s Park area as well as the existing sidewalk and trail system throughout the City work towards the goal of connecting all of the neighborhoods to the regional park area.

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The Chosen Valley Regional Park area has been included as part of the Chatfield Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Further detailed plans and maps are located in Section X of this plan.\

Future Park and Open Space Needs Recreational facilities are important in making communities attractive placed to work, live, and invest in. The following table identifies park needs for Chatfield based on local and national standards. Projections for future park needs are based on National Standards and the City’s existing level of service, using a 2030 population of 3,030. Data provided by the Minnesota State Demographer.

Type Existing Ac.

Ac per 1,000 Residents

NRPA Standard per 1,000 Residents

2030 Total Parkland Acres Need (based on Existing Level)

Mini Park .33 .11 NA NA

Neighborhood Parks 9.74 3.47 1‐2 Acres .41

Community Parks 109.75 (including the Regional Park)

39.0 5‐8 NA

Public Schools 101.5 36.2 NA NA

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City Parks Maps & Inventories

All City Parks Jaycee Park, High School, Savanna

Spring Nature Area Floyd Mohawk Park Hendricks Park Shady Oak Park Chatfield Elementary School Hillside Park Mill Creek Park City Park Groen Park Lonestone Park Chatfield Plaza

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THWY 30CO RD 5

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THWY 52

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SIXTH S

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City Parks

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Jaycee ParkFloyd Mohawk ParkHendricks Park

Groen Park

Hillside Park

Lonestone Park

Mini Park

Neighborhood Park

Community Park

Future Parkland

Floodplain

Schools

Future Parkland

0 1,000 2,000500Feet

Shady Oak Park

City ParkMill Creek Park

Chosen Valley Country Club

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Jaycee Park, School, Savanna Spring Nature Area

º

0 100 20050Feet

Union Street

Football Field& Track

Major Trail Routes

Savanna SpringNature Area

SoftballField

Burr

Oak A

ve.

Main St.

Outdoor Classroom /Picnic Area

Mowed

Trails

Hard Surface Trail

Parking

Parking

ParkingPool

Tot Lot

Shed

ChatfieldHigh School

ShelterTennis Courts

BaseballField

Greenhouse

Playground

SoftballField

ChatfieldSignJaycee ParkSign

LEDSign

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Jaycee Park / High School / Savanna Spring Nature Area Inventory

Size 46.5 Acres

Land Cover Mowed turf, tree cover, and natural areas

Recreational Facilities / Activities Tennis courts, baseball and softball fields, running track, swimming pool, two tot lots, BBQ pits, and a football field

Buildings / Shelters High School, storage buildings, picnic shelter, pool house, greenhouse, and dugouts

Pedestrian Accessibility Perimeter sidewalks and an internal trail system, hard surface and mowed loops trails in Savanna Spring Nature Area, and surrounded by the Major Pedestrian Route.

Parking Multiple parking lots surrounding the school, adjacent to the pool, tennis courts, and between the softball fields along Burr Oak Avenue.

Signage Signage for the High School at Union and Burr Oak and Highway 52, Signage for Savanna Spring , and signage for Jaycee Park and Pool along Highway 52.

Utility & Capacity Issues Water and Sewer are available on‐site

Frequency of Use High

Maintenance Requirements High

History The Chatfield Independent School District #227 owns the property which includes the High School, Jaycee Park, and the Savanna Spring Nature Area. However the property is cooperatively managed by the City of Chatfield and the Chatfield School District

Donations / Gifts and Donor

Goals: Objectives: Recommendations:

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1060

1080

104

0

1100

1120

1140

1040

AVE

CSUDEN CT

0 40 8020Feet

Add landscape buffer tobetter define park area

Future Signage

Future Tot LotSwingset

FuturePicnic Pavillion

RemoveMerry-Go-Round

Future Walk

º

LegendMajor Trail Routes

20 Foot Contours

Floyd Mohawk Park

Treeline

County Road10

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Floyd Mohawk Park Inventory

Size 1.78 Acres

Land Cover Mowed turf, scattered tree cover

Recreational Facilities / Activities Swing Set, merry‐go‐round

Buildings / Shelters None

Pedestrian Accessibility No Sidewalks in park or along street

Parking On‐street parking in Suden Court

Signage Small, wooden sign

Utility & Capacity Issues

Frequency of Use Low

Maintenance Requirements Low

History

Donations / Gifts and Donor In memory of Floyd Mohawk, former Police Chief

Goals:

To amend the park to increase its visibility and accessibility and make it an attractive, functional neighborhood park.

Objectives:

Raise city‐wide awareness and make the park more visible

Make the park more inviting by adding pedestrian access.

Better define the park boundary. Recommendations:

Install permanent signage

Develop a neighborhood signage system to guide people to parks.

Install a handicap accessible public sidewalk from Suden Court to the future picnic pavilion.

Create a landscape buffer from adjacent residents

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Use overstore trees, large evergreens, and shrubs around the park perimeter to define the park’s boundary.

Install proper mulch material under the swing set to improve safety.

Install new play equipment, benches, and trash/recycle containers.

Install new picnic pavilion overlooking the tot lot area.

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Hendricks Park

º0 50 10025

Feet

Future Park & CityEntrance SignTableAdd hedge orornamental fence

Winona St.

Highway 30/74

Bench

Major Pedestrian Route

Existing Landscape Bed

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Hendricks Park Inventory

Size .33 Acres

Land Cover Turf and landscaped beds

Recreational Facilities / Activities Bench and table


Pedestrian Accessibility Sidewalks along Winona Street and directly connected to the Major Pedestrian Route located along Winona and Hwy 30/74.

Parking No parking

Signage No sign

Utility & Capacity Issues Limited



History Hendricks Foundation “Entrance to the City”

Donations / Gifts and Donor In honor of Jennie Bemis Hendricks’ generous bequest to the Chatfield Women’s Community Club. Volunteers maintain the flowers and shrubs.

Goals:

To maintain Hendricks Park that as a visual gateway to the City form the east. Objectives:

Add visual cues to the park property on the north side of Hwy. 30/74 to raise public awareness that this is parkland.

Visually separate the Hendricks Memorial Park with the adjacent house. Recommendations:

Add a permanent entrance monument sign along Hwy. 30/74.

Add a low hedge or fence to define the southern edge of the park property.

Maintain an inviting place to sit with a bench and table.

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Improve the landscaping to include more perennials, ornamental grasses, annuals, and spring bulbs.

Continue to work with the Women’s Community Club and other interested organizations on the plantings and maintenance of the landscaping.

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0 40 8020Feet

TotLot

º

Shady Oak Park

RV ConnectionArea

Park SignHawley Street

Prospect Street

ParkingFuturePavilion

Future Trail

Grand Street

J & M Dr.

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Shady Oak Park Inventory

Size 1.41 Acres

Land Cover Mowed turf and oak tree cover

Recreational Facilities / Activities A tot lot area, benches, fire pit, sand volleyball court, sandbox removable restrooms, and RV Camping area.

Buildings / Shelters Small covered sandbox and a shelter‐concrete pad

Pedestrian Accessibility No sidewalks, some steep grads along Prospect Street

Parking Parking Prospect Street

Signage One monument sign along Prospect Street


Frequency of Use Medium

Maintenance Requirements Medium

History


Goals:

To create a neighborhood park that is easily accessible and provides for a variety of family friendly activities.

Objectives:

Remove and improve park facilities to encourage family use.

Phase out the RV Park sites as other sites are established in other park areas in Chatfield.

Make the park safer and easily accessible for pedestrians. Recommendations:

Install a new picnic shelter in the same location of the previous pavilion

Remove the RV camping amenities and restore the area to turf.

Remove the old fire pit.

Add picnic table and BBQ areas throughout the park.

Improve the vitality of the grass by trimming some lower branches of the oaks, removing some small areas of grass and increasing the level of turf maintenance.

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Add a connecting trail from the Park to John and Mary Drive along the easement as shown on the map.

Install shrubs along the perimeter adjacent to the private homes and yards to enhance the park’s definition.

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0 200 400100Feet

Shed

º

Chatfield Elementary School

SoftballFields Water Tower

ChatfieldElementary SchoolHillsidePark

Hwy 30/74

Wisdom Ln

Hillsi

deDr

.

Hill top Ln

Hills

ideLn.

Tot Lot

Major Pedes tr ianRout e

Tot LotParking

Parking

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Hillside Park

º0 40 8020

FeetMajor Trail Routes

Elevated WaterTower

FutureTot LotHil

lside

Drive

Wisdom Lane

Hilltop Ln.

FuturePavillion

FutureBenches

Future Trail

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Hillside Park Inventory

Size 3.61 acres

Land Cover Mowed grasses

Recreational Facilities / Activities None


Pedestrian Accessibility Sidewalks are located on the south side of Hillside Drive and a 10’ pedestrian trail is located on the north side of Hillside Drive. The trail is part of the Major Pedestrian Route near the Chatfield Elementary School along Hillside Drive.

Parking None

Signage None

Utility & Capacity Issues Limited on‐site but available



Goals:

To develop this park as a neighborhood family gathering spot with ample open space for flexible uses.

Objectives:

Encourage people to walk to the park by making good pedestrian connections.

Make the park inviting, comfortable, and beautiful by adding landscaping on the perimeter.

Recommendations:

Develop the park by adding a tot lot, benches, and trail that connects to Hillside Drive.

Add native overstory and understory trees and shrubs along the perimeter.

Add trash/recycle containers adjacent to the play area.

Add a permanent park monument sign.

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"J

"J

0 100 20050Feet

VolleyballCourts

Shelter

º

Mill Creek Park

Horseshoes

Third Street

Parking

BaseballField

SoftballField

SeatingTot Lot

SkatePark

SoccerField

HorseArena

Parking

BasketballCourts

Hockey Rink

Mill Creek

LegendMNDNR Fishing Easement

"J City Trailheads

Major Pedestrain Routes

Lost Creek - Private Trail

Trails

Division Street

Main Street

GroenPark

Handicap AccessibleFishing Pier

Future TrailheadSign

IceSkakingPark Sign

9-Hole Disc Golf Area

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Mill Creek Park Inventory

Size 32.0

Land Cover Mowed turf, scattered tree cover, natural creek and drainageways

Recreational Facilities / Activities Baseball and Softball fields, Soccer fields, Volleyball courts, horseshoe pit, Skating/Ice Rink, Hockey Rink, Playground (tot lot) areas, Horse Arena, Fishing, Skate park, Basketball courts

Buildings / Shelters Warming house, Picnic Shelter, Public restrooms, Storage shed

Pedestrian Accessibility Trail access along Division Street, internal trail loop system and under‐bridge access to Groen Park and the Trailhead to the private 6‐mile Lost Creek Trailhead.

Parking Two gravel parking lots on the south end, two asphalt parking lots with handicap parking on the north end.

Signage Two monument signs with additional directional signs within the park




History Mill Creek Park was purchased from Eugene C. Jack and Mary Ann Jack on January 30, 1985. MNDNR was granted an easement along Mill Creek on September 15, 1993.

Donations / Gifts and Donor Numerous gifts and donations of time and materials have been donated to Mill Creek Park over the years by local associations.

Goals –

To enhance the common areas between the existing active recreation elements that would complement those facilities and establish a better connection to Mill Creek

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Objectives – Maintain and enhance the existing trail system

Strengthen the visual and physical connection to Mill Creek

Establish diverse native landscaping along the creek

Increase the safety and comfort of the park users

Ensure that there is adequate hard surface parking available for sport events Recommendations –

Add permanent public restroom facilities

Expand hiking trails to include smaller, closed loops and a linear trail along Mill Creek

Add ornamental, dark sky friendly, lighting to improve pedestrian comfort/safety

Repair or replace the existing wooden footbridges

Make the connection to the canoe launch area as shown on the Regional Park Master Plan

Maintain and expand the use of the City Hockey Rink

Add more garbage/recycle containers

Add drinking fountains along the trails and near public restrooms

Add more hard surface parking

Put the ballfield, hard courts and hockey/skating area light systems on automatic timers

Plant native trees near the play equipment, along the creek, and randomly throughout the park

Install future fishing piers

Need better enforcement of dog leash laws


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City Park

º0 20 4010

Feet

Visitor'sCenter

ExistingPlayground

City BandShell

Movable Event Seating

Tuper's GooseFountain

Veteran's Memorials

kj

ThirdStreet

FourthStreet

Main Street

Twiford Street

Library

Lost CreekTrailInformation

Major Trail RoutesCity Park Sidewalk

Bench

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City Park Inventory

Size 1.90

Land Cover Mowed turf, scattered tree cover

Recreational Facilities / Activities A wooden playground structure, Western Days. Farmer’s Market, Veteran’s Ceremonies, Summer Concert in the Park Series

Buildings / Shelters Visitor’s Center and the Bank Shell

Pedestrian Accessibility Perimeter sidewalks, a diagonal sidewalk transecting the park, the Lost Creek Trail Map Kiosk, and connected to the Major Pedestrian Route along Third Street.

Parking On‐street parking

Signage None

Utility & Capacity Issues All City Services are available.



History The park was built in 1854. Designed by Thomas Twiford. The first year of outdoor concerts was the summer of 1885.


Goals:

To maintain and enhance the existing civic and historic character of the park while keeping and physical elements of the park as open for multiple uses as possible.

Objectives:

Maintain and enhance the park area as a recreational and cultural space for city‐wide events.

Strengthen the visual and physical connection to the Chosen Valley Regional Park (Mill Creek and Groen Park)

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Recommendations:

Add historic inspired ornamental lights, benches, and trash/recycle contains as needed.

Trim, mulch, and maintain the existing trees and plant diversity native trees like oak, maple, basswood, and hackberry.

Bury the existing power lines and remove poles and remove all unnecessary physical elements in the park.

Add more moveable chairs to the band shell area as needed, while promoting a much open park area as possible.

Replace, when needed, the existing diagonal sidewalk with a paving that will provide a historic look. Install an ornamental compass flush with the walk in the center of the park.

Add boulevard trees to available boulevard areas.

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&

"J

0 50 10025Feet

Future Bridge

ShelterLost Creek Trailhead

Future Trail

FutureParkland

º

Groen Park

Tot Lot

Third Street

Parking

Trail Loop

Mill Creek Park

Lost Creek Trail

TrailLoop

LegendMNDNR Fishing Easement

Proposed Creek Trail


Treeline

Park Sign

River St.

M i l l C r e e k

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Groen Park Inventory

Size 13.92 Acres

Land Cover Mowed turf, scattered tree cover, natural creek and drainageways

Recreational Facilities / Activities Play equipment, swings, and benches

Buildings / Shelters Picnic Shelter

Pedestrian Accessibility Trail loop along the perimeter and Trailhead the Lost Creek (a 6‐mile private trail) and an under‐bridge pedestrian trail connection to Mill Creek Park

Parking Parking along Third Street

Signage One monument sign along Third Street and the Lost Creek Trailhead sign




History Through the generosity of Alice and Andy Groen’s Estate, Groen Park was dedicated as a “Family Park” with no organized sports in 2001

Donations / Gifts and Donor Numerous gifts and donations of time and materials have been donated to Groen Park over the years by local associations.

Goals:

Continue to develop this park as a ‘family park’ Objectives:

Encourage the physical connection and signage to Mill Creek Park

Make the children’s experience at the park a priority when considering what type of amenties to add

Maintain large areas of open space as informal play areas for kids.

Make the pedestrian connection to the Root River and Mill Creek stronger so it becomes an integral part of the park.

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Recommendations:

Stripe the parking lot for safety and efficiency

Add native plantings to the creek area but still leave areas accessible to people

Plant native trees near the play equipment and along the creek and drainageways

Work with the DNR to complete stream bank improvements

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0 40 8020Feet

TableTotLot

º

Lonestone Park

Lonestone Court

Lonestone Court

Future Shrubs & Trees

St. Albans Place

SubdivisionSigns

Major Trail Route

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Lonestone Park Inventory

Size 1.04

Land Cover Mowed turf

Recreational Facilities / Activities A tot lot area and one table


Pedestrian Accessibility Sidewalks are located adjacent to the park along Lonestone Court and the park is connected to the Major Pedestrian Route on St. Albans Place

Parking None

Signage None


Frequency of Use Medium

Maintenance Requirements Medium

History Granted to the City on June 9, 2003


Goals:

To develop this park as a neighborhood family gathering spot with ample open space for flexible uses.

Objectives:

Encourage people to walk to the park by making good pedestrian connections.

Make the park more inviting, comfortable, and beautiful by adding landscaping on the perimeter.

Add a fire pit to encourage social interaction amongst residents.

Recommendations: Create a permanent sign that incorporates the large ‘stone’ on site with some

landscaping.

Add native overstory and understory trees and shrubs adjacent to the tot lot and along the perimeter.

Add trash/recycle containers adjacent to the play areas.

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Trails

Trail System Existing Trails Trail Recommendations Designing Complete Streets Pedestrian Routes Sidewalk Plan ATV Trails

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Trails The City of Chatfield’s Comprehensive Plan has outlined a number of types of trails, depending on location, constraints, and trail user needs. Among the trail types that the City and/or private land owners have developed include: off‐road hiking, interpretive trails, bicycle trails, snowshoe or cross country skiing trials, and snowmobile and ATV trails.

Trail System Trails play an important role beyond recreation. They also serve as a means of transportation and access for residents to navigate their community. Identifying intended users and determining a priority for developing missing links is a critical aspect of the overall park system. Existing Trails Major Pedestrian Routes – The City has existing and proposed pedestrian access through a series of trails, sidewalks, and striped bike lanes and is a key part of the Major Pedestrian Routes defined in the Chatfield Comprehensive Plan. See the attached Pedestrian Route Map. Creek Trail ‐ The Creek Trail follows Mill Creek from the north end of town through the City southward towards the City of Fountain. The trails is constructed between Mill Creek Park beginning at Division Street to Groen Park, just south of County Road 2 or Third Street. The Creek trail north of Division Street follows along the west side of Mill Creek with a proposed underpass pedestrian trail under Highway 30 and then travels southward along Mill Creek Road. The Creek trail south of Groen Park will follow Mill Creek to the confluence of the Root River and then travel northward along the east side of the Root River towards Fountain. Several pedestrian bridges are proposed within the Chosen Valley Regional Park to connect Groen Park and Mill Creek Park to the Creek Trail. Park Loop Trails ‐ Several internal trails are already constructed within Mill Creek and Groen Park as shown on the Master Plan. A new proposed natural loop is proposed to be located southeast of Mill Creek and northwest of the Root River along with a connecting trail to a trailhead located on Library Lane. Lost Creek Trail– A six‐mile natural trail begins in Groen Park. A trailhead sign is located near the parking lot that outlines the route. This trail is privately owned and maintained by the Bluff Country Hiking Club. The goal of the trail is to provide residents and visitors opportunities for recreational and education while enjoying the scenery and wildlife of the areas. The trail is open to the public with use limited to hiking and snowshoeing, as the trail surface is natural soil and grass. Savanna Spring Nature Area, Interpretative Trail ‐ This 10 acre site is located just north of the Chatfield High School along Highway 52. A hard surface trail leads from the kiosk near the parking area and runs by Big Spring and through the prairie. The top loop of the trail is a mowed path leading to further prairie areas, and to the oak savanna, hardwood forest, and outdoor classroom/picnic area. Brochures are available at the kiosk describing the bluebird trail, providing a map and explaining the yellow and black signs that identify the ecosystems and learning areas throughout the SSNA.

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Chatfield ATV Trails ‐ is a 25‐mile trail developed by a group of neighbors with a passion for ATVs. The trail is entirely on private land and leads riders through backdrops of farm fields, pasture, ponds, and woods. The trail has an “easy” rating and is suitable for all ages and skill levels. Class II ATV’s (side‐by‐side machines) are allowed on the trail. The trail is provided by the City of Chatfield and maintained by the Chatfield ATV Trails Club. The Chatfield Trail map can be found MN DNR website under “Recreation”. The trail usually opens in May, depending on trail conditions, and closes at the end of October due to hunting season. The trail is located 1.5 miles east from Chatfield city limits on Hwy 30/74. A Parking lot and restrooms are on the south side of the highway and a picnic area is located along the southern trail loop on the north side of Highway 30/74. Master Plan Recommendations This Master Plan recognizes that the community is comprised of residents and visitors with various skill levels with trail use; including walking, hiking, in‐line skating and bicycling. The three common skill levels are: children, basic walkers and bicyclists and avid or experienced trail users. Although the trail system should be designed to accommodate all three groups as much as possible, children and basic walkers/bicyclists will likely be the primary users of the City’s trail system. Skill level and Connectivity Recommendations:

Develop an overall trail system providing opportunities for residents of various skill levels

Establish trail route loops throughout the community connecting community parks, downtown, and neighborhoods for use by various skill levels.

Children This group is comprised of school age children (elementary / middle school) who routinely walk or ride bikes to and from school, visit friends and neighbors, go to parks, and attend school activities. This group of walkers and cyclists tend to have less experience negotiating traffic and is not always aware of potential hazards. They often disobey traffic laws and traffic control devices and tend to prefer the shortest route possible to get from place to place. Children also tend to prefer bike lanes and bike paths to riding on the street. Younger bicyclist typically have difficulty following a straight track and frequently weave while biking. Detached trails that have ample separation from auto traffic is ideal for this skill group. Basic Walkers & Bicyclists Basic walkers and riders are typically young and older adults or younger riders who are less confident in their ability to operate in traffic without special provisions. They are comfortable riding at lower traffic volume streets and separated trails and prefer designated bike lanes, sidewalks or wide shoulders on quite streets. This group uses walks or bikes as a preferred mode of transportation, provided that destinations are reasonably close and good walk/bike route exists. Working adults, retired adults, high school students and parents with younger children make up a majority of this group. These walkers and bicyclists want a safe and efficient route and will likely not choose a route near lots of traffic or routes that are not maintained Avid or Experienced Hikers, Snowshoeing, Bicyclers, and Skaters This group generally uses bikes or skates as others would use an automobile. They ride or hike for convenience or exercise. Their routes typically include existing streets including heavy traffic areas and off‐road public and private long‐distance trails. Bikers and skaters typically choose routes that are

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relatively uninterrupted. Snowshoeing and hikers typically choose isolated off‐road challenging routes that get them out into nature.

Designing Complete Streets It is important to consider pedestrian friendly amenities as both stand along projects as well as integrated with street construction projects (both rehab and new) in the future to accommodate the various users and skill groups using the sidewalks and trails. Multi‐modal transportation is a complete way to look at the transportation network and includes pedestrians, runners, vehicles, etc… when designing a transportation corridor. This may include bike lanes, traffic calming on busy streets or separate trails with the end result being a system allowing for safe use by multiple groups.

Complete Street Recommendations: Follow the Major Pedestrian Routes plan outlined in the Comprehensive Plan which connects

residential streets as routes between community destinations.

Provide traffic calming along designated streets and visual cues, when needed, to help automobile and pedestrian traffic use the corridor safely.

Improve sidewalk infrastructure (width, materials, ADA) throughout the community as funding allows.

Provide amenities and signage encourage identity and increased use of trails and sidewalks throughout Chatfield.

The City should have plans for various types of trails, depending on location, constraints and trail user needs. Trail types could include: off‐road hiking, interpretive trails, bicycle trails, snowshoe or cross country skiing trails, snowmobile trails, and sidewalks. User needs and safety should be the critical factor in all types of trails.

Trail Type Recommendations: Striped or marked bike lanes include a painted symbol on the roadway surface and associated

signage along the right‐of‐way and can be an inexpensive way to add facilities where spaces on existing streets allow these.

Widened shoulders should be at 2‐3 feet in width for separation where shoulders are used as trails.

Trails and sidewalks serve as extensions of road networks and connect neighborhoods to community features.

Nature trails typically run through natural areas and can be used for multiple types of recreation.

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Master Plan Regional Park Plan

Plan Overview, Goals & Objectives Regional Park Master Plan Map

Regional Park Overview Map

Regional Public Fishing Access Map Parkland & Public Access Regional Trails County‐Wide Parks

Maps from others

DNR – Mill Creek Easement Map

Lost Creek Hiking Trail Map

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Chosen Valley Regional Park Plan Project Introduction The Chosen Valley Regional Park flows through two of Chatfield’s Community Parks; Groen Park and Mill Creek Park. The Regional Park also connects the Chatfield Music Lending Library and parking area for anglers, City Park and the Chatfield Center for the Arts, and the six‐mile private Lost Creek Trail which begins in Groen Park. This corridor serves not only the citizens of Chatfield but also has a regional draw primarily due to the popularity of trout fishing, hiking, and natural areas.

113.75 Acres of Parkland Area

35.7 Acres of Fishing Easement along Mill Creek and the Root River

10.31 Miles of Trails (6 miles are private) Regional Context The City of Chatfield is located in Southeastern Minnesota in Olmsted and Fillmore Counties along the Mill Creek/Root River corridor. Chatfield is approximately 21 miles southeast of Rochester, 9 miles south of Fountain, and 15 miles south of Preston. The Regional Park runs along a stretch of Mill Creek south of Division Street to the confluence of Mill Creek to the Root River. Site Context The Regional Park includes Mill Creek and Groen Parks. The inventory of these park are located in the Summary section of the Plan. The Regional Park also includes a connective trail to the DNR’s fishing easement along Mill Creek and the Root River to a parking lot located at the west end of Library Lane. A bike/walk lane along the north side of the Third Street will connect City Park and the Chatfield Center for the Arts to the Regional Park. Proposed Regional Park Uses The proposed park uses focus on natural area hiking/walking trails along Mill Creek and the Root River with access to the streams for fishing, and connectivity to the Canoe Launch located along the south end of the park adjacent to Third Street. A public access road is also proposed to provide access to several campground/RV sites to be located along the wooded area near the Root River. Several pedestrian bridges are proposed to cross Mill Creek and the Root River connecting Groen and Mill Creek Park to the rest of the Regional Parkland area. See the Regional Park Master Plan for detailed locations. Parking Several parking areas are located at the north end Mill Creek Park as well as a long loop roadway with handicap accessible parking near the softball field. Additional parking is located on the south end of Mill Creek Park near the hockey rink. In Groen Park, there is a parking lot located along the entrance near Third Street. Finally, there is a parking lot located at the southeast end of Library Lane which has fairly close access to Mill Creek and the Root River for fishing. The parking lot is shared with the Chatfield Music Lending Library. No additional parking is proposed in the natural areas near the Root River other than seasonal camping/ RV parking areas as shown on the Master Plan. 59 of 76

Trails Major Pedestrian Trails ‐ The Regional Park is connected to the rest of the City of Chatfield through a series of trails, sidewalks, and proposed striped bike lanes and is a key part of the Major Pedestrian Routes defined in the Chatfield Comprehensive Plan. See the attached Pedestrian Route Map. Creek Trail - The park area is also part of a proposed Creek Trail that will follow Mill Creek from the north end of town through the City southward towards the City of Fountain. Park Loop Trails - Several internal trails are already constructed within Mill Creek and Groen Park as shown on the Master Plan. A new proposed natural loop is proposed to be located southeast of Mill Creek and northwest of the Root River along with a connecting trail to a trailhead located on Library Lane. Lost Creek Trail– A six‐mile natural trail begins in Groen Park. A trailhead sign is located near the parking lot that outlines the route. This trail is privately owned and maintained by the Bluff Country Hiking Club. The goal of the trail is to provide residents and visitors opportunities for recreational and education while enjoying the scenery and wildlife of the areas. The trail is open to the public with use limited to hiking and snowshoeing, as the trail surface is natural soil and grass.

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Elmira TownshipOrion Township

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1.53 Miles - Park Trails6.35 Miles - Lost Creek Trail2.43 Miles - Proposed Trails10.31 Total Miles

Trails(Privately Owned)

Fishing11,750 Current Stream Ft. of Angling900 Proposed Stream Ft. of Angling35.7 Total Acres of Angling Esmt.

JordanTownship Chatfield Township

Elmira Township

Regional Park Detail

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Elmira Township

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City ofChatfieldOlmsted Co.

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Date: 3/27/15

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116.93 Acres of Angling Fishing Easement42,010 Linear Feet of Streambank


Regional Public Fishing Access

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Rochester

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Regional Park Boundary MN State Parks Ol. Co. & Rochester +100 Ac Parks

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Maintenance & Implementation

Maintenance Recommendations

Ground Maintenance

Building Maintenance Administration & Operation Collaboration Volunteer Implementation Strategies

All City Park Recommendations

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Maintenance Recommendations Maintenance is a crucial component to successful park system. The location, type of maintenance and purpose of the space or facility all play a role in determining the time and effort involved in a specific maintenance plan. The help understand the level of maintenance necessary for a successful park and trail system, the section divides maintenance into two sections, ground and building maintenance.

General Recommendations:

Choose materials and products that have extended life under extreme wear and tear to prolong replacement schedules

Manage invasive species in natural areas

Implement a tree replacement program to ensure diversity and health of trees within City‐owned property

Ground Maintenance Grounds maintenance is maintaining and establishing standards of care for outdoor spaces, such as parks, trails, and sidewalks. This is important to address due to the visual impression parks, trails, and sidewalks provide to both park users and people who view these amenities from public streets. If a park and trail system is aesthetically pleasing, it will tend to make the space safer and more enjoyable for both the user and passerby. If proper maintenance is not followed, property issues and concerns grow as does the time and money to fix them. A maintenance plan usually incorporates all of the following tasks: mowing, weed control, pest control, athletic field grooming, snow removal, leaf removal, maintaining playground surfaces and equipment, parking lot repair, controlling surface water runoff, trash removal, planting, pruning, plant removal, watering and fertilizing.

Building Maintenance Building maintenance refers to the upkeep of indoor and outdoor facilities. This would include spaces such as the Chatfield Pool and buildings in Jaycee Park, pavilions, restrooms, hockey rink, and various other outdoor picnic facilities. The main benefit from maintaining a solid building maintenance plan is to extend the life cycle of the facility or building. If proper care and maintenance are performed, chances are the facility or building will continue to provide assets within the system with minimal unscheduled maintenance throughout its lifespan. The building maintenance plan may include the following tasks: trash removal, plumbing, heating and cooling and electrical systems, mopping, vacuuming, sweeping, replacing lights, windows and doors, carpet, handrails, and ice sheet maintenance. Scheduled maintenance includes routine maintenance for daily or weekly activities; Preventative maintenance is used to prevent or avoid park and trail amenities from breaking down and causing safety concerns and issues, and cyclical maintenance is for tasks that require a full cycle of activities that need to be managed on a scheduled cycle such as mowing. Maintenance Recommendations:

Evaluate the existing maintenance practices at least every 2 years to determine if they need to be adjusted to meet the changing needs of the Community and maintenance budgeting.

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Determine if there are ways to reduce maintenance costs by engaging public/private partnerships, enlisting and training volunteers, or focusing resources based on community needs and use patterns.

Prioritize maintenance needs for Chatfield’s public parks and trails in the existing system. Determine first the ‘base’ needs of each park and then prioritize for all additional needs.

Develop an action plan for the additional needs given available resources and effort.

Administration and Operation Developing effective administrative techniques will guide Chatfield’s Park Department in efficient operations and will assist in keeping in‐line with the interests of the community. Recommendations:

Develop consistent approaches to all public procedures and services so the public becomes familiar with these procedures.

Staff should continue to participate in community projects and civic organizations to develop working relationships throughout the community.

Collaboration Developing strong relationships and good rapport among other Parks & Recreation staff, City Officials, other agencies, and the public is an important key to the overall future success of Chatfield’s parks and trail system. Recommendations:

Maintain open communication and understanding of common goals and interest of various community groups.

Commit to collaborating with the Chatfield School District, Bluff Country Hiking Trail, Savanna Spring Nature Area, Chatfield ATV Trails Club, and others for the mutual benefit of projects.

Encourage participation and funding opportunities with intergovernmental agencies.

Work closely with Chatfield’s Community Education staff to orchestrate and schedule maintenance and use of public parks and trails.

Volunteer Volunteers are a major factor in current park system maintenance practices and will continue to be a critical element to the success of the parks and trail system and programming efforts. Though coordination of volunteer does require staff time but the rewards quickly outnumber this commitment. Recommendations

Recruit young volunteers through school and youth organizations.

Increase the visibility of volunteers’ opportunities to give the programs greater presence and appeal.

Maximize the use of volunteers with special events, general park and trail maintenance activities, and when engaging other organizations (schools and churches, etc.) to assist in annual clean‐up events and tasks.

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Implementation Strategies One of the most important aspects of the Master Plan is the discussion on implementation. This section provides potential funding opportunities, define priorities, and suggests recommended monitoring methods. This plan also makes an appeal to public partners and citizen groups to provide oversight and to be actively involved in implementation. Residents, local government, the Chatfield School District, law enforcement, healthcare, local businesses, developers, and other agencies will need to work together for Chatfield’s vision for its parks, trails, and open spaces system to be successful. This section of the Mater Plan combines the recommendations from all individual parks inventories to create a “Master List” of recommendations. City Park

Add historic inspired ornamental lights, benches, and trash/recycle contains as needed.

Trim, mulch, and maintain the existing trees and plant diversity native trees like oak, maple, basswood, and hackberry.

Bury the existing power lines and remove poles and remove all unnecessary physical elements in the park.

Add more moveable chairs to the band shell area as needed, while promoting a much open park area as possible.

Replace, when needed, the existing diagonal sidewalk with a paving that will provide a historic look. Install an ornamental compass flush with the walk in the center of the park.

Add boulevard trees to available boulevard areas. Floyd Mohawk Park

Install permanent signage

Develop a neighborhood signage system to guide people to parks.

Install a handicap accessible public sidewalk from Suden Court to the future picnic pavilion.

Create a landscape buffer from adjacent residents

Groen Park Stripe the parking lot for safety and efficiency

Add native plantings to the creek area but still leave areas accessible to people

Plant native trees near the play equipment and along the creek and drainageways

Work with the DNR to complete stream bank improvements Hendricks Park

Add a permanent entrance monument sign along Hwy. 30/74.

Add a low hedge or fence to define the southern edge of the park property.

Maintain an inviting place to sit with a bench and table.

Improve the landscaping to include more perennials, ornamental grasses, annuals, and spring bulbs.

Continue to work with the Women’s Community Club and other interested organizations on the plantings and maintenance of the landscaping.

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Hillside Park Develop the park by adding a tot lot, benches, and trail that connects to Hillside Drive.

Add native overstory and understory trees and shrubs along the perimeter.

Add trash/recycle containers adjacent to the play area.

Add a permanent park monument sign. Jaycee Park

Lonestone Park

Create a permanent sign that incorporates the large ‘stone’ on site with some landscaping.

Add native overstory and understory trees and shrubs adjacent to the tot lot and along the perimeter.

Add trash/recycle containers adjacent to the play areas. Mill Creek Park

Add permanent public restroom facilities

Expand hiking trails to include smaller, closed loops and a linear trail along Mill Creek

Add ornamental, dark sky friendly, lighting to improve pedestrian comfort/safety

Repair or replace the existing wooden footbridges

Make the connection to the canoe launch area as shown on the Regional Park Master Plan

Maintain and expand the use of the City Hockey Rink

Add more garbage/recycle containers

Add drinking fountains along the trails and near public restrooms

Add more hard surface parking

Put the ballfield, hard courts and hockey/skating area light systems on automatic timers

Plant native trees near the play equipment, along the creek, and randomly throughout the park

Install future fishing piers

Need better enforcement of dog leash laws


Shady Oak Park Install a new picnic shelter in the same location of the previous pavilion

Remove the RV camping amenities and restore the area to turf.

Remove the old fire pit.

Add picnic table and BBQ areas throughout the park.

Improve the vitality of the grass by trimming some lower branches of the oaks, removing some small areas of grass and increasing the level of turf maintenance.

Add a connecting trail from the Park to John and Mary Drive along the easement as shown on the map.

Install shrubs along the perimeter adjacent to the private homes and yards to enhance the park’s definition.

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Creek Trail

Purchase and develop a trail within the Chip Bernard parcel along Mill Creek between Highway 30 and Division Street

Park Loop Trails

Maintain and enhance the trails year‐round.

Lost Creek and Savanna Spring Nature Area Trail, & Chatfield ATV Trail

Continue to support … etc

Sidewalks

Continue to maintain and construct sidewalks following the Major Pedestrian Route, and Safe Ruotes to School Plan.

Improve the connective to neighborhoods and community facilities including adding ADA stantards

Maintain…..

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Appendix

Mn‐DNR Fishing Easement Map Lost Creek Trail Map

(Bluff Country Hiking Club Brochure) Pedestrian Route Map

(2015 Comprehensive Plan)

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Chatfield City LimitsMill Creek Angling Easements9,450 stream feet and 28.5 acres. An additional 900 stream feet and2.7 acres will be added shortly (in red on map).North Branch Root River Angling Easements2,300 stream feet and 4.5 acres.

Mill CreekM-009-034Date: August 19, 2014

Map for: Chatfield City Easements

Prepared By: Jim Melander

Fisheries Office: Lanesboro

Mouth TRS: 104N-11W-S6

Source TRS: 106N-12W-S35

Counties: Olmsted, Fillmore . 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.40.05Miles

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Groen Park Trailhead - parking available, follow signs on paved path to Co. Road 2.

1. Fillmore County Road 2 Hiking Path-Follow marked hiking path along County Rd. 2. Caution during road crossing. Please follow marked signs. Easy Hike.

2. Carson-Groen Wildlife Sanctuary - Cross County Rd 2 to “Opat Bridge”. Follow logging road then wooded path through mature forest. Moderate hike.

3. Magnum Road Path - Approximately a half mile of gravel road, frequently traveled. Hike on left side of the road, watch for traffi c and look

carefully for re-entry into woods. Easy hike.

4. Narveson Farm Path - Mowed area along agricultural fi eld. Easy hike.

5. Horsman Farm Path - Mowed area along agricultural fi eld with short wooded stretch. Easyhike.

6. 207th Path - Short stretch of gravel road.Easy hike.

7. Jordan Township Public Cartway Path- Well maintained cartway. Please keep noise to a minimum as you are close to a home. Easy hike.

8a. Bailey Brothers’ Prairie - Mowed path through recreated prairie that follows the line of the woods. Watch for occasional uneven areas of the path. Easy to moderate hike.

8b. Bailey Brothers’ Forest - Enters forest again. Watch signs carefully as other paths are present and are not authorized for use. Steep climbs down towards creek. Look for “Sarah’s Crossing” with a hidden fossil in one of the limestone rocks. Diffi cult hike.

8c. Bailey Brothers’ Cattle Pasture - This area of the trail splits into the “high road” heading east towards Chatfi eld and the “low road” heading west towards Ninebark Road. The high path

follows the top of the limestone bluff while the low path follows the creek through the grassy pasture.Easy to moderate hike.

8d. Bailey Brothers’ Brook Valley - Enters mature forest and decends into a beautiful valley. Look for the Resting Log” and “Jayme’s Crossing” and continue uphill. Diffi cult hike.

9. Thorn Apple Valley Path - Follow mowed path by dam and continue on pioneer road to the creek valley. Follow signs to wooden bridge (crossing Lost Creek) and continue uphill into woods. Moderate to diffi cult hike.

10. Carlson Farm Path - Narrow forest path descending into a stream crossing, ascending up switch backs to a mowed path. Diffi cult hike.

11. Thorn Apple Hill Path - Mowed path along tree and priarie plantings and agricultural fi elds to Ninebark Road Trailhead. Gently rolling easy to moderate hike.

Ninebark Road Trailhead - limited parking.Maps and brochures available.

Blue directional signs go towards Ninebark Road

White directional signs go towards the City of Chatfi eld

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Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center28097 Goodview DriveLanesboro, MN [email protected] or 888.800.9558 (MN, WI, IA)

SPONSORING PARTNERSEagle Bluff Environmental Learning CenterSouthern Minnesota Initiative Foundation7 Rivers Alliance

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSMN Association of CountiesMN Association of Small CitiesFillmore County Soil and Water Conservation DistrictLand Stewardship ProjectLanesboro Chamber of CommerceU of M/Southeast Regional Sustainable Development PartnershipWinona State University, Adult and Continuing Education

MORNING SESSION Conservation Subdivisions Meet Needs For Residential Development and Permanent Conservation Land TogetherA four-step method is presented for laying out residential developments around the central principle of open space conservation. Design enhancements for marketability and bottom-line profitability are shared. We will also look at how the design process can fit local regulations, and how conservation design principles apply to higher-density infill projects.

A hands-on design exercise allows participants to apply the design process to a real parcel of land, selecting house sites in relation to pre-identified conservation areas, aligning streets and trails, and drawing lot lines.

AFTERNOON SESSION Commercial DevelopmentImprove Marketability & Bottom-Line Profitability In Today’s MarketLearn practical ways to reclaim existing highway development strips characterized by dysfunctionality and visual blight. Integrate multiple Conservation Design and New Urbanism strategies to increase functionality and attractiveness. We will explore: site design and building layout, tree planting, traffic calming, mass transit, pedestrian connectivity, affordable housing, conservation of natural/historic/cultural features, storm water management, sign standards, and lighting standards. Examples of successful highway commercial development and redevelopment will be shown.

Practical inspiration and tools for land developers, city and county planning board members, and planning professionals

Event Date ..............................January 8, 2016Registration .............................................. 8 amContinental Breakfast ......................8:15 amWorkshop ......................................9 am - 4 pmLunch ........................................... 12 pm - 1 pmFee ............................................$60 first person

$50 each additional person with same address & organization

Interested, but can’t make a full day workshop? Hear Mr. Arendt and enjoy a local foods meal at Eagle Bluff’s Dinner on the Bluff, Saturday, January 9 at 5:00 pm.

Register today!eagle-bluff.org Click on Events!

Arendt’s designs are “twice green” because

they succeed both environmentally and

economically

RuralBy Design

A workshop with Randall Arendt Landscape planner & author of Rural By Design: Maintaining Small Town Character, Conservation Subdivisions, Growing Greener, and Envisioning Better Communities

Friday, January 8th, 2016

Randall Arendt portrait: Mari Hill Harpur, www.MariHillHarpurPhotography.comPlan illustrations: Island Press, www.IslandPress.org Conover Commons (large circle): Ross Chapin, www.RossChapin.comLandscape photos: Randall Arendt, www.GreenerProspects.comPlanning group photo: CommunityGrowthOptions.org & 1000 Friends of Minnesota

Workshop Located at

Saturday, April 2, 2016

A Land Ethic Workshop

What we begin in this workshop continues April 2, 2016, when landowners, farmers, and the businesses that support them gather to explore their personal ethics for the land and specific ways to put them to work. Organized by Eagle Bluff, Winona State University, and Land Stewardship Project with generous funding from the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation. Details & registration: www.winona.augusoft.net Search on: Land Ethic

Coming to Eagle Bluff

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Chatfield Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting …7A8298AF-61FA-481A...Amundson entered a motion,...

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