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HomeMy WebLinkAbout13.A.1. Scott County Regional Trail RouteTO: Mayor & City Council Mark McNeill, City Administrator FROM: Bruce Loney, Public Works Director Jamie Polley, Parks, Recreation & Natural Resources Director SUBJECT: Scott County Regional Trail Route DATE: May 3, 2011 INTRODUCTION: CITY OF SHAKOPEE Memorandum Scott County Parks & Trail staff has completed their regional trail study and will present their report to the City Council. BACKGROUND: At the February 8, 2011 City Council Workshop, Scott County Parks and Trail Department presented a regional trail master plan. At this meeting, the City Council was asked to provide feedback on the Scott West Regional Trail Master Plan. From the meeting, the Council indicated to be open for a trail on Holmes Street with a preference that there be no physical barriers. The County staff has since had an open house and met with their Citizen Design Team. Attached is a letter sent to residents/homeowners on the two concept routes being considered in the City of Shakopee. Also, attached are FAQ's and maps of the concept routes with examples of signage for a bicycle boulevard. The preferred route by the City's Design Team is the Holmes Street option. This option does not restrict parking or local access and is possible due to the lower speed and low traffic volume on Holmes Street. County staff will make a presentation on the Scott West Regional Trail Route concepts and ask Council on their preferred route. ALTERNATIVES: 1. Approve a motion selecting Option B (Spencer Street/Holmes Street) as the preferred Regional Trail Alignment in Shakopee. 2. Approve a motion selecting Option C ( Marystown/Vierling /C.R. 69) as the preferred Regional Trail Alignment in Shakopee. 3. Table for additional information. RECOMMENDATION: The County staff and their Citizen Design Team are recommending Alternative No. 1 (Option B Spencer/Holmes Street) as the preferred route. Staff believes the route can work as a bicycle boulevard due to low speed and low traffic volume on Holmes Street. Adjacent residents will not lose parking spaces or local access. Either route will function as a regional route; however, the Spencer/Holmes Street option is more direct. ACTION REQUESTED: Approve a motion selecting Option B (Spencer Street/Holmes Street) as the preferred Regional Trail Alignment in Shakopee. ruce Loney .E. Public Works Director ENGR/2011-PROJECT S/201 1-COUNCIL/SCOTT -COUNTY-REGIONAL-TRAIL-ROUTE-UPDATE Jamie Polley, CPRP P, R & NR Director SCOTT COUNTY PARKS AND TRAILS COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION is L� — ft it_ i. Vir-RNM'-N-r CENTER 114 nnn FOURTH AVENUE WEST • SHAIll1DCC MN 553 79-1220 Z 4-.-- gAir/ (952) 496-8475 . Fax (952) 496-8496 . Web wvvw.co.scott.mn.us April 14, 2011 Subject: Scott West Regional Trail Route Update Dear Resident/Landowner, This letter is intended to give you an update on the regional trail planning study underway in Shakopee. The existing Scott West Regional Trail Master Plan is being updated to explore options to complete missing trail segments. Ultimately, the trail is envisioned to connect Shakopee and Prior Lake to three regional parks, the Minnesota Valley State Trail, and the existing regional trail system in Carver and Hennepin counties (via Highway 101 river crossing). Since the open house in February, County staff has worked with the Citizen Design Team (a group of Scott County residents) and City of Shakopee staff to refine alternative trail routes based on input from the public and City Council. All public comments received to date have been reviewed, and responses to these comments are attached. Within Shakopee, concepts have been refined to two alternatives: 1) an on- street (bicycle boulevard) trail designation via Holmes Street (connecting to the existing trail at Spencer and 10 Avenue); and 2) a road separated trail around the current edge of Shakopee via 17 Avenue, Marystown Road, Vierling Avenue, and County Road 69. While both alternatives have their share of opportunities and challenges, the CDT recommends the Holmes Street option since it offers the shortest, most direct route, maximizes existing infrastructure, and provides key local connections. The recommended and alternate trail routes will be presented to the Shakopee City Council at their May 3' meeting. The Council will be asked to select their preferred trail route through Shakopee. Any interested individuals are welcomed to attend this meeting. Scott West Regional Trail Master Plan Presentation to Shakopee City Council Tuesday, May 3` 7:00 p.m. Shakopee City Hall Council Chamber, 129 S. Holmes Street The Scott County Parks & Trails website has been updated with additional information on the proposed trail routes. Go to www.co.scott.mn.us /parkstrails and click on the "Master Planning" section. If you have any questions regarding this study, please contact me at (952) 496 -8839 or ahinqeveld(a.co.scoft.mn.us. Sincerely, Andy Hingeveld, AICP Associate Planner Scott County Community Services Division 1 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Scott West Regional Trail What changes have been made to the concepts since the Open House? Potential trail routes through Shakopee have been refined to two concepts (see attached map), both of which have their share of opportunities and challenges. The recommended route connects the State Trail and existing regional trail at Spencer and 10t Avenue via an on- street designation on Holmes Street. Along 10 Avenue, the trail would replace the sidewalk located on the south side of the road. Based on public input, the Holmes Street section has been revised to a bicycle boulevard concept, which does not result in loss of on- street parking and limits street improvements to directional signage. Holmes Street provides a direct connection to the existing Highway 101 underpass and Historic Holmes Street pedestrian bridge across the Minnesota River. This would improve access for bike commuters and recreational trail users to connect to the Minnesota Valley State Trail and regional trails north of the river. In addition, the route would connect key community destinations, including Downtown Shakopee, City Hall, County offices, and three schools. An alternative route has been revised to a road separated trail around the current edge of Shakopee via 17 Avenue, Marystown Road, Vierling Avenue, and County Road 69. This alternative would utilize existing and planned trails adjacent to, but separated from the roadway. By going around the heart of Shakopee, the trail would be about two miles longer and less direct for trail users south of Highway 169 (who may choose to ride city streets through town instead). The trail would cross County Road 69 at -grade and connect to the State Trail west of downtown. What is a Bicycle Boulevard? A bicycle boulevard is a local street or series of contiguous street segments that function as a through street for bicyclists while discouraging through automobile traffic. Local automobile access and on- street parking is maintained. Bicycle boulevards create favorable conditions for bicycling by taking advantage of local streets and their inherently bicycle - friendly characteristics: low traffic volumes and operating speeds. Bicyclists riding on bicycle boulevards typically share the roadway with other traffic. Bicycle boulevards should be long enough to provide continuity over a distance typical of an average urban bicycle trip (2 -5 miles), but they can also be used for shorter distances when needed to connect path segments in constrained environments, or as a short segment on a route between a neighborhood and a school. Bicycle boulevards are intended to serve a wider population of bicyclists that may not feel safe using busier roadways. The bicycle boulevard approach has been selected for Holmes Street because existing conditions include many of the desired characteristics for a safe and successful bicycle boulevard. The only modifications to the existing street would be the addition of directional signs to guide bicyclists along the way. Examples of directional signs are attached. How is a bicycle boulevard different from bike lanes? Bike lanes designate a portion of a roadway with pavement markings for the exclusive use of bicyclists. Bicycle boulevards do not separate transportation types within the roadway. Rather, bicycle boulevards promote bicyclists to share the roadway with automobile traffic. Bicycle boulevards are only appropriate on roads with low traffic volumes (3,000 vehicle trips per day or less), do not serve as collector (or through) routes for automobiles, and provide a direct route for bicyclists to key destinations. What is the timeline for proposed changes? — Approximately 5 -10 years The current study is part of a regional trail master plan to determine the long -term development of the Scott West Regional Trail. While the master plan will be completed this summer, trail improvements are not expected to occur in the next few years. The first priority is to complete the trail segment between Shakopee and Prior Lake (along County Roads 78 and 17), which is planned with road construction projects over the next 5 -10 years. The recommended Holmes Street option would not be designated as a bicycle boulevard until the first trail segment is completed along County Roads 78 and 17 (5 -10 years). The alternative route (via Marystown, Vierling, and County Road 69) would be implemented along with road construction projects that are also expected to occur over the next ten years. Will on- street parking spaces be removed on Holmes Street? — Not proposed at this time On- street parking will not be impacted by the bicycle boulevard concept via Holmes Street. However, diagonal parking within the downtown area may pose challenges as drivers have reduced visibility when backing out of a parking space. Long -term, diagonal parking should be reevaluated to improve safety. Changes are not proposed at this time. When in the downtown area, cyclists would be encouraged to ride near the center of the travel lane to increase visibility with drivers. Regional trails are most commonly associated with recreational use during weekends and early evenings. Most parking demands on Holmes Street (especially around the County offices and school) occur during weekday work hours. Thus, anticipated use of the trail route would occur at times when on- street parking demand is low. In situations when high levels of on- street parking exist, bicyclists would be encouraged to ride closer to the middle of the travel lane to avoid opening car doors and enhance visibility for drivers entering /exiting parking spaces. Public Comments Received and Responses Comments received from City Council, Open House, phone conversations, and e-mails General Comments There needs to be an improved bike connection along 101 north of the river. The "Y" intersection is dangerous and difficult to cross. This needs immediate attention. Ultimately, a safe trail connection is envisioned between Shakopee and regional trails in Carver and Hennepin counties. This study does not include the "Y" intersection in Carver County. Scott County will continue to work with Carver County, City of Shakopee, City of Chanhassen, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation to identify opportunities to improve bicycle and pedestrian access the river. Some bikers do not obey stop signs today. There is concern that this will increase with more bikers on the road. Bicyclists are required to obey all traffic signs. The following summarizes state regulations related to bicycle traffic (source: Minnesota Department of Transportation): 1. Bicyclists may ride on all Minnesota roads, except where restricted. 2. Bicyclists should ride on the road, and must ride in the same direction as traffic. 3. Motorists must maintain a three -foot clearance when passing a bicyclist. 4. Bicyclists must obey all traffic control signs and signals, just as motorists. 5. Motorists and bicyclists must yield the right -of -way to each other. 6. Bicyclists must signal their turns and should ride in a predictable manner. 7. Bicyclists must use a headlight and rear reflectors when it's dark. To increase visibility, add a rear flashing light. 8. Bicyclists should always wear helmets. Bike lanes and bike boulevards do not actually improve safety for bicyclists. It is merely a "perceived" safety. The overall safety of on- street bicycle lanes is a highly debated topic. Those in favor of bike lanes argue that they improve safety because they encourage cyclists to ride in the correct direction, signal to motorists that cyclists have a right to the road, and remind motorists to look for cyclists when turning. However, others argue that bike lanes create a false sense of security for cyclists and that drivers easily overlook bike lanes. 3 With bicycle boulevards, a separate bike lane is not provided. This eliminates the perceived safety of a painted travel lane. However, there remains a need for both motorists and cyclists to remain attentive and aware of each other. Bicycle boulevards are only recommended on streets with low traffic volumes (3,000 vehicle trips per day or less) and limited through vehicle trips. Holmes Street is consistent with recommended standards for a bicycle boulevard. Providing more and safer opportunities for biking and walking is a good thing. Trails only serve a small percentage of the population. I disagree with spending money on this project now or in the future. The Minnesota Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (Mn DNR) notes that trail recreation is becoming increasingly important; the interest and demand for more trails are being felt at all levels of government. This increased interest in trail recreation reflects the fact that it is a healthful form of exercise for people of all age groups, is suitable for all levels of physical conditioning, can be carried out by families, groups or individuals, and is often available close to home. It's also a relatively inexpensive form of recreation. There's no need to buy special equipment or supplies and usually there are no fees for trail use by individuals and families. Demographic forecasts further accentuate the growing importance of trail recreation. The 45- 65 age group is expected to grow significantly during the next decade. Although many of these people would not or could not participate in more vigorous contact sports, the vast majority of them can walk, hike or ride a bicycle along a trail. Promotion of exercising and keeping fit well into advanced age also will assist with the overall health of aging communities. Scott County is a regional park implementing agency of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Regional parks and trails development projects are eligible for funding through the Minnesota Clean Water, Land, & Legacy Amendment, in which 14.25% of the funds generated from the 3/8% increase in the state sales tax will provide funding for regional and state parks and trails. Federal transportation and state grants may also support development. Comments Specific to Holmes Street Route Why were there no residents from Holmes Street included on the Citizen Design Team? The Citizen Design Team (CDT) is a 45- member volunteer group of citizens charged with guiding the design of the park and trail master plans. In 2010, CDT members were recruited county -wide. Announcements for the application process were posted in the Scott County SCENE, local newspapers (including Shakopee Valley News), and flyers at various locations. Holmes St. is the best option in the older part of town since it impacts the fewest residents. I prefer a low impact option, such as signage. I live on Holmes and would love to see families biking to downtown or Huber Park safely. Support for Holmes Street included better access to community facilities, improved safety for bikers, direct connection to state trail, and low traffic volumes. Many residents commented a low- impact approach, such as directional signage, would be adequate for Holmes Street. A number of residents noted separated bike lanes would not be necessary due to low traffic volumes on Holmes. The concept has been revised to address these concerns. The bike trail could be a benefit for downtown Shakopee and its businesses, but loss of parking could be devastating. The concept has been revised to address this concern. The loss of on street parking is not proposed. 4 Spencer Street is a better option since there is less on- street parking and a north -south flow of auto traffic. Spencer Street was explored extensively as a potential trail route, however has not been recommended as a route due to the following reasons. Spencer is a collector street (6,000 vehicles /day) that serves as a through- street between 10 Avenue and 1s Avenue (101) for automobile traffic. With the current level of traffic, bike lanes would be required resulting in a loss of parking on one side of the road. The intersection at Spencer and 1s Avenue does not include a traffic light, making it more difficult (and less safe) for walkers and bikers to cross 1st Avenue and connect to the State Trail. Redirecting the trail route before reaching 1s Avenue (i.e., turning west on a side street such as 2nd or 3rd Avenues) would result in similar issues as with the Holmes Street route, but having a less direct route that trail users may not follow. Experienced bikers are generally more comfortable interacting with vehicles on busier roadways (like Spencer), but recreational bikers tend to avoid such roads and prefer lower volume roadways like Holmes Street. Regional trails are intended to serve a wide audience of bicyclists and trail users, including families with children, occasional trail users, and experienced bikers. This is an established neighborhood. Trails are unnecessary in this area (older part of Shakopee). The Marystown Road /Adams Street option makes more sense because it can accommodate a traditional trail. Although the trail would look and function differently, a trail route along Holmes Street provides direct connection to the existing Highway 101 underpass and Historic Holmes Street pedestrian bridge across the Minnesota River. The direct route is expected to increase ridership by serving bike commuters and recreational trail users who want to connect to the Minnesota Valley State Trail and regional trails north of the river. In addition, the route would connect key local destinations, including Downtown Shakopee, City Hall, County offices, and three schools. The trail design (utilizing a bicycle boulevard concept) along Holmes has been scaled back to provide the least amount of impact to the existing streetscape and adjacent private properties. Other than directional signage that could be added to existing street signs, there would be no physical change to Holmes Street. An alternative route has been identified to avoid the older downtown neighborhood via Marystown Road, Vierling Avenue, and County Road 69. This route would utilize existing and planned trails that would be adjacent, but separated from the roadway. By going around the heart of Shakopee, the trail would be about two miles longer and less direct for trail users south of Highway 169 (who may choose to ride city streets through town instead). In addition, there are challenges with trail users crossing County Road 69 at -grade to connect to the State Trail. Designating Holmes Street as a bike route will lead to more litter, traffic, and an increase of outsiders using our street. Studies performed by the Metropolitan Council indicate that 50 percent of the users will live within 0.75 miles from the trail corridor and 75 percent will live within three miles of the trail corridor. This means many the trail users will be trail neighbors and come directly from the community. The typical trail visitor profile indicates that 60 percent of visits will be individuals, whereas 40 percent will be groups of families or friends. In addition, the majority of visitors will fall into the baby boomer generation and have a higher than average education and income. When new trails are proposed, a common concern of adjacent property owners is the potential effect on their safety and security as well as the safety and security of trail users. Past experience in the Twin Cities area has shown that regional trails are safe and generate very little criminal activity. Research shows that criminals are aware of trail user's willingness to report suspicious activity, and therefore, avoid areas with popular trails. With the designation of a regional trail, an increase in non - motorized traffic is anticipated. To reduce potential for litter, garbage receptacles are located in the downtown area. 5 Holmes Street is a historic street. Historic properties are often points of interest along trails. A review of culturally significant and historic sites was performed as part of this study, and two historic buildings have been identified on Holmes Street. When trails are aligned near historic properties, it is suggested that the trail and any associated features such as lighting, benches, or other facilities remain outside the historic boundaries of the property. Since no physical changes are proposed on Holmes Street, impacts to historic properties are not expected. Any additional signage will be located to avoid historic properties. Holmes Street has a steep hill that is challenging for bikers. Downtown Shakopee and the riverfront area have a lower elevation than the rest of the city. All streets leading to these areas do have a slope that can be challenging for some cyclists. The slope on Holmes Street is comparable, if not less, than most of the nearby streets. The use of Holmes Street as a trail route will lead to safety conflicts between bikers and vehicles entering /exiting driveways. The majority of driveways that access Holmes Street exist between 7 and 10 Avenues, with the remaining blocks primarily having an alley access. Bicycle boulevards require vehicles and bicyclists to share the roadway, just as they are required to do today. Conflicts between vehicles and bicyclists would not be any different from potential conflicts that exist today. To increase visibility for vehicles entering /exiting driveways, bicyclists are encouraged to ride closer to the center of the travel lane. This will lead to more people walking in the street. Too many people already walk in the street. Typical regional trail users include cyclists, walkers /runners, and in -line skaters. Along Holmes Street, trail uses would be separated with cyclists and in -line skaters sharing the road with motorists and walkers /runners using the sidewalk. There is currently no sidewalk along Holmes Street between Shakopee Ave and 10th Ave. In 2009, the City and School District identified this section as a key gap in the sidewalk system to accommodate safe school routes to the Junior High School, recommending a sidewalk be added. To enhance safety and limit walkers /runners from using the street, adding the sidewalk would be recommended as part of the regional trail system, and funding would be available through regional parks programs. Accessible parking is needed in the downtown area, particularly in front of the chiropractor office and My Brother's Keeper. Can parking restrictions be modified to 30- minutes and add handicapped parking spaces? This comment has been forwarded to the City of Shakopee staff, who has been reviewing parking needs in the downtown area as part of an upcoming road overlay project. There is a lot of on- street parking on Holmes Street. Parking spaces cannot be lost. The trail concept has been refined to a bicycle boulevard on Holmes Street, which does not remove any parking spaces. Bicycle boulevards encourage vehicles and bicyclists to share the roadway, with signage increasing the awareness of bicyclists. Since Holmes Street is a low - traffic street and not a through -route between 101 and 10th Avenue, it is consistent with design guidelines for bike boulevards. 6 sl-3 os Tree 0 �J MN RW °� -- -- --"- ay e a w oee s °`ay ackson TAT tisville Tip. ..150th st w Louisville Trail Searcl Area 1 1 130 th $ w 0 • • V ! 101 Crossing Future Study Area Alternative Trail Design on Holmes Street r - " $ prinp Lake 1"' I _I R4Iiiona P� Shakopee N o ewX `(he Corrido .aa` z �r1 E Lanyfoo+ e 140th Sl NW e C, °ek eiva Count QJj.WI Pt 1 1w Prior Lake t8 1401H St NE _ 160th St SE — - — f Regional Trail Concepts Scott West Alignment Alternatives Draft: 4/14/2011 Prepared by Scott County Parks & Trails Trail Concepts - Routes Preferred (existing segment) - Preferred (future segment) ® Alternate (existing segment) = Alternate (future segment) Trail Loop Connection (existing segment) Trail Loop Connection (future segment) Cleary Lake Regional Park opt 0' Ey.1n DI L1 Mulplty"Hanreltan Palk Reserve Alt. Ctcss 69 @rd Ave Alt. Cross 69 @ Vierling 1: t.: Vier Spero lake RecesetPe1 1301h St Connect to S Railroad Track's 1st Ye.r a.a,Y ..• t...9.,nol os, Overview Map Scott West Regional Trail t � Yuphy Audit r Fart Rosen, \ t • SCOTT COUNTY COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION Pet& & Trees Depermml ScO 370 Fourth Avenue t Shakopee. Almesote 55379.1220 / yl ,952■498.MT5 - fs* l%_i 49644%• We wra.xatms vs This map is neither a legally recorded document not a survey and is intended fol planning proposes only Date: Apra 14, 2011 Or d hvC W n' !' ifs V V 6,0 ; W �' w No Sidewalk DRAFT 4 t 0 1,000 2,000 Feet VA A,, E Bicycle' B o u levard,t E ▪ via Holm Str eet a�• b f tr N a ^ Vl 3 t V :i.,' V• % ,,, v O ,f ‘` 79 Comparison of Revised Alternatives from CSAH 78 to MN Valley State Trail Option: Total Distance: Remaining Distance to Complete: B - Spencer /Holmes 3.61 mi 2.14 mi (1.35 mi trail. 0.79 mi lie blvd. 0.25 mi sidewalk) C - MarystownNierling /69 5 mi 3 18 mi (all trail) S tate St M AI ram' Oritk al Cer Regional Trail - Shakopee Alternatives Legend Option B. Existing MEM Option C, Proposed Option B. Proposed a Main Spine. Proposed 6 Option C, Existing State Trail (existing) Local Trail (existing) 8 Examples of Directional Signage for Bicycle Boulevards Identification and Wayfinding Madison. At Source. Denise Thomton Vancouver, BC Source User Blake via PicassJVeb Palo Alto, CA. Source. Planehzen Source : Payton Chung Identification and Wayfinding . ♦ cab Greenwood Center 0.4 I Green Lake 0.6 rio 4 Shoreline 3 .2 duo ♦ Seattle WA Source User ®ake via PacasaWeb 7. 7 itki c o BicycIe Blvd Minneapolis, MN Source: Reuben Coffins Minneapolis. MN Source: Reuben Collins 0 B!C - far Ro.,icC.ARD MAT F ULL USE M Berkeley, CA Source. Frank Chan te te "T# F 9 ChaJra is '0 Long Lake Highway 5 Cha r.F.azsn Wayzata AVOdtand httnnetc� ..5 Minnes ta.rta 6? Hyland - Anderson Lakes Park Reserve Murphy- Hanreh4n Park Reserve Ea1ms Maple Pun Dakota Rail Line ' Wend ? C arrrr SCOTT COUNTY COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION Parks & Trails Department 200 Fourth Avenue West, Shakopee, Minnesota 55379 (952) 498 -8475 - Fax (952) 496.8496 - Web: www.soottmn.ee This reap Is neither a legally recorded document nor a survey and is Intended for planning purposes only. Date: Jan. 3, 2011 North 'rke medetlel Cleary La, e Regional rk y Clean Piver Tn•p. SW Metro Regional Trail Connections Scott West Regional Trail Min Street - Midto Green _.I Mi 1'aul Legend Regional Trail System Existing Regional Trail m - t Planned Regional Tra44 Existing State Trail Regional Park Connect to Holmes Street Pedestrian Bridge & Hwy 101 Underpass 2nciaveW J v ,, 1 Scott County 1 Government Center j, Central Family District 1 Office 1 t 1 i 1 i 1 -40.* e`1 J m N-0 0 Mlinne i ,1 ail Sta le 1 Downtown Shakopee 2 ,,6A.ef Business District 1 1 Shakopee 1 City Hall r,•1 .1t Ci th 7 J Huber Part 11'.•:.II• "• r Shakopee Junior High School ['t Spring lake Regional Park Overview Map Scott West Regional Trail Clear ke Regional Park 1 s Murphy- Hanrehin Park Reserve f, 1 I h tra • t Connect to Existing Trail South qrl Spencer Regional Trail - Holmes Street Connection ;Scott SCOTT COUNTY COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION Parks & Trails Department 200 Fourth Avenue West, Shakopee, Minnesota 55379 -1220 D RAF T (952) 498 -8475 - Fax ( 4968496 - Web: www.scott.mn.us This map is neither a legally recorded document nor a survey and is intended for planning purposes only. Date: Jan. 3, 2011 Legend Scott West Regional Trail Existing Trail — — Pro posed Route 200 400 ute Feet State Trail (existing)