HomeMy WebLinkAbout01(A) - Parks Master Plan Review Report AttachmentPark & Trail
System Plan
2040
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 1: System Plan Overview
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 1
1.1 Introduction
The City of Prior Lake has an impressive park, trail and recreation system that provides
abundant forms of recreation for its residents. The parks are fairly balanced in terms of
distribution throughout the city and is fortunate to have several regional parks within a
short distance that contributes to an even greater amount of recreation for its residents,
contributing to the overall health, wellness and quality of life for the community.
The Prior Lake Park and Trail System Master Plan is a strategic and comprehensive
master planning document that is meant to provide an overall community vision for the
parks, trails and recreation for the City of Prior Lake for the next 20 years.
This plan provides the framework and recommendations for both short and long term
improvements of the parks, trails and recreation programs to meet the needs of the
community. It is meant to provide recommendations that will guide future investments for
development and improvements by establishing goals, policies and objectives through
development of priorities in line with the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
1
System Plan Overview
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 1: System Plan Overview
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 2
1.2 Planning Process
The planning process began in August 2018 with a kick-off meeting with the City of Prior
Lake to explore ideas, concerns and goals for the planning process, as well as to gather
important project data.
A critical piece of this planning process was the community engagement which was used
to raise awareness of the project, identify a project vision, and to gain a good
understanding of current community needs and desires. Input was solicited through
various methods that included:
• Social Pinpoint interactive online engagement map
• Pop-up engagement events
• Public meetings
• Steering committee
• Stakeholder interviews
• Social media and press
An inventory and assessment of the existing system was undertaken in order to gain a
good understanding of the nuances of the system as it relates to existing and future
recreation needs. Current recreational trends were identified and demographic information
was gathered to evaluate population trends and distribution of the populations across the
community.
Site assessments of the parks were completed to determine the existing conditions, types
of amenities available and location within the city, as well as architectural assessments of
select community park buildings. The existing system was compared to the national
recreational standards and comparison of similar communities to determine any
deficiencies or particular concerns.
The findings of the community engagement, data collection and analysis process provided
guidance to the development of preliminary recommendations for the draft mast er plan.
The draft master plan went through a review and comment process to ensure the
recommendations properly reflected the views of the community and to confirm priorities.
Following refinements, the final master plan was finalized and adopted by the City of Prior
Lake on date to be submitted to the Metropolitan Council as an amendment to the 2040
Comprehensive Plan.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 1: System Plan Overview
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 3
A. Community Engagement Findings
The findings of the community engagement process identified key concerns, desired
recreational activities and trends, and priorities, and were categorized into the following
themes.
The highest priority was for trails with overall improved connectivity desired. The most
commonly desired amenities included a splash pad, pickleball courts, challenge / ninja course,
inclusive playground, improved parking accommodations at the existing community parks,
and the desire for an additional dog park.
Connectivity Quality Sustainability
• Close trail gaps
• Connect to
destinations
• Proper distribution
of parks
• Access to lakes
and water
• Meet ADA
guidelines
• Wayfinding
• Connect progams
to demographics
• Sense of Place
• Convenience
• Prioritize quality
community parks
• Ensure one quality
park in each service
area
• Improve experience
& safety
• Provide varying
levels of challenge
• Meet current needs
and new recreation
• Avoid redundancy
• Unique experiences
• Adequate parking
• Quality construction
• Flexible spaces
• Reduce
maintenance needs
• New technologies
• Pollinator friendly
• Oversight and
management
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2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 4
B. System Assessment Findings
The findings from the system assessments showed that, in most instances, Prior Lake
exceeded national recreation standards for types, amounts and distribution of parks and
amenities across the system. Prior Lake also generally ranked higher than similar
communities in comparison.
Assessments of the trail system, individual parks and select buildings resulted in the
following findings.
1. Most parks are generally at the end of their life span, resulting in numerous parks
in need of significant repair or replacement.
2. At the time of the building assessments, it was determined that various
improvements would improve the overall function and desirability of the buildings,
though more in-depth studies would need to be completed to determine if the costs
for renovation are more cost-effective than a full building replacement based on
life spans and cost-benefit.
3. There are some identified major trail gaps, primarily along Highway 13, with
additional gaps desired to for improved connectivity to primary destinations and
adjoining communities.
4. There were several trail routes with degraded trail conditions.
5. Overall there was generally a good distribution of parks, though some gaps were
identified for future search areas or improved connectivity to existing parks.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 1: System Plan Overview
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 5
1.3 Community Vision and Goals
A. Project Vision Statement
The following vision statement was developed during the planning process that defines
the vision that Prior Lake aspires to attain by the year 2020.
B. Goals and Objectives
The following goals were developed to represent the end conditions that Prior Lake is
striving to attain under the primary categories established in the needs analysis.
The City of Prior Lake contains safe, attractive and fun
outdoor recreational experiences that encourage a healthy
lifestyle, meet the diverse needs of its residents, connect
people to the outdoors, preserve the natural resources and
open spaces, and highlight its cultural resources.
Connectivity Quality Sustainability
• Provide an
interconnected and
accessible park,
trail and greenway
system for
recreation and
transportation
• Create a
sustainabile park,
trail and recreation
system that
adequately meets
the needs of the
community
• Create a unique
and high-quality
park and trail
system that
responds to the
evolving demands
of recreational
trends,
populations,
demographics, and
income levels
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 1: System Plan Overview
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 6
1.4 Recommendations & Implementation
A. Parks and Recreation System Plan
The recommendations for the park and recreation system are as follows:
High Priority Recommendations
1. Prioritize the improvements and development of community parks that serve the
greater needs of the community to include;
• Renovation of Lakefront Park/Watzl’s Beach to meet current programming
demands as a key community park.
• Improvements to Thomas Ryan Memorial and The Ponds to meet athletic
needs, with a search for a future community park to help supplement additional
athletic and recreational needs of the growing community.
• Full redevelopment of Sand Point Beach to be a prime destination community
park focused on water recreation.
• Complete development of Pike Lake Park as a natural resource based passive
use park with water recreation.
• Improvements to Memorial Park as the location for the town ballfield with
additional park recreational amenities.
• Secure lands and funding for the development of an additional community
park. 50-80 acres preferable.
2. Within each neighborhood service area, ensure one high-quality developed park
based on varying criteria such as suitability for development, recreational
programming and having 300 or more children within a 1/2 mile radius.
3. Focus improving connectivity, quality and sustainability goals by implementing the
system plan recommendations, to include;
• Complete recommended park designation modifications and align park
developments accordingly.
• Improve quality of experiences.
• Reduce redundancy.
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2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 7
B. Trails and Open Space System Plan
The recommendations for the trail system are as follows:
High Priority Recommendations
1. Prioritize filling in major gaps in the system to allow for greater connectivity and
safe pedestrian travel to primary destinations within the city and to regional
connections.
2. Following primary trail gaps, prioritize the improvement of existing trails over the
development of new trails to be based upon the pavement ratings.
3. Prioritize funding of trail improvements and developments.
4. Seek funding and partnership opportunities to implement the trail improvements
and developments.
C. Implementation
Implementing the recommendations for the park and recreation system will take
significant and strategic efforts on behalf of the city. The City needs to continually review
and adjust priorities for parks, trail and recreational programs to be in alignment with
current funding available and according to current community sentiment. The following
strategy is recommended for implementing recommendations for the park system.
1. Identify a dedicated staff person to manage the park, trail and recreation system:
This person would be responsible for the management of the parks, trails and
recreation system and staff, budget for improvements, seek partnerships and
opportunities, and act as a community liaison.
2. Establish an initial 5-year improvement program: This establishes priorities for
park and trail developments, redevelopment and improvements.
3. Prepare a master plan for high priority parks: This should involve the community
stakeholders and include a cost estimate and listing of priorities within each park
site.
4. Implement improvements: Undertake initial park and trail improvements projects
consistent with the priorities and funding available.
5. Community awareness: Implement an awareness program to identify upcoming
projects and promote the investments that the city is implementing
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 1: System Plan Overview
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 8
The following outlines the overall estimates for parks and high priority trail segments.
Description Estimate
Community Parks $14.2 - $23.1 M
Neighborhood Parks $16.4 M
High Priority Trail Segments $26.5 M
Total: $57.1 – $66 M +
These numbers do not account for costs related to the acquisition or development of a future
community park, parks that require a master plan study with associated cost estimate,
maintenance and replacement costs, or lower priority trail segments.
This system plan is meant to provide the city with the initial high priority elements to start using
as a basis for budgeting and a Capital Improvement Plan.
Funding will likely need to include additional mechanisms to make the most of the city’s dollars,
such as grant opportunities and shared costs through partnerships. The city may decide to seek
additional methods for increasing the amount of funding available to make more significant
improvements. This may include measures such as bonding, a dedicated tax levy or franchise
fees, though a more thorough examination of the city resident’s willingness to participate in these
funding initiatives will be necessary to determine if they are viable options at this time. Even if
measures such as these are successful, they are not a meant to be used to fund a few significant
improvements every 10 to 20 years without additional yearly funding in between to keep the
system functioning at an optimal level.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 9
2.1 Overview
Assessing the needs of the community is a critical first step in developing a park and trail
system master plan because it represents those who it is intended to serve. This plan
reflects the needs of the community at the time it was written, in conjunction with a system-
wide review and analysis, review of current trends in recreation, and comparison to
national recreation standards.
The Prior Lake 2040 Park & Trail System Plan replaces the previous planning documents
and will require ongoing measuring, monitoring and updating to ensure the needs of the
community are continuing to be met as changes to needs and trends take place over time.
2
Assessment of Need
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 10
2.2 Demographics
The City of Prior Lake is located approximately 20 miles southwest of Minneapolis in Scott
County. The city is located adjacent to Savage and Shakopee, with the townships of
Spring Lake and Credit River located to the south and southeast of the city. Portions of
the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) are located within the Prior Lake
city limits.
Overall the city encompasses 19.09 square miles of land with 3.18 square miles classified
as water bodies. In 2004, the City entered into an orderly annexation agreement with
Spring Lake Township that will eventually add approximately 3,000 additional acres to the
city. Much of this land is vacant or agricultural land, however there are some existing
single-family residential lots.
Image by Arkyan - My own work, based on public domain information. Based on similar map concepts by
Ixnayonthetimmay, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2934232
Demographic changes will continue to impact preferences for transportation, housing, and
park needs. For instance, both millennials and seniors will be seeking walkable
neighborhoods and expanded trail facilities, while transportation options for commuting
remain a high priority for those who work outside of Scott County.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
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The following is an overview of the demographics, historic population trends and
projections which will affect the parks, trails and recreational needs as the community
continues to grow and evolve.
A. Population & Age
The 2019 population is estimated at 26,840 which has grown approximately 15% from the
2010 census of 22,796, and currently has a median age of 39 years.
According to the U.S. Census from 2011-2016, the largest age group in the City of Prior
Lake was 45-54 years at 18%, followed by the 25-34 years and 35-44 years at 12% and
13% respectively. While the 55-59 and 60-64 years were each at 6%, the 65-74 years
were at 8%.
Past and projected City population, households, and employment are:
Table 2.1 – Forecasted Population, Housing and Employment 1
2010
(US Census)
2019
(Estimate)
2020
(Forecast)
2030
(Forecast)
2040
(Forecast)
Population 22,796 26,840 27,500 32,500 37,600
Households 8,210 9,291 10,500 12,600 14,700
Employment 3,766 8,1332 5,000 7,000 8,100
Source: Metropolitan Council
1Population and household estimates and forecasts do not include SMSC property (fee and trust).
22016 employment estimate includes SMSC employees
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 12
B. Race and Ethnicity
Demographics related to age, income and minority populations were developed to better
understand growth that has taken place between 2010 and 2019 and to help anticipate
future growth patterns. While the community is predominantly white, the minority
population is showing growth and is expected to continue, which will affect the types of
recreation and programs desired.
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C. Income & Education
The city of Prior Lake is considered fairly affluent with a median household income of
$107,537 and over 28% of the households earning a yearly income between $100,000 -
$149,999, while 7% fell below the $25,000 median household income level, which is
approximately the national poverty level for a family of four. One item to note is that some
of the higher income areas in Prior Lake can be attributed to the Shakopee Mdewakanton
Sioux Community (SMSC) lands.
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Of Prior Lake residents, 46% have achieved a bachelor’s degree or higher, 32%
completed some college, and 19% completed their education as a high school graduate.
Educational attainment by race shows the highest rate of attainment of a bachelor’s
degree beyond high school is among black people with a rate of nearly 100% followed by
Asian with a rate of 45%. The least likely to attain a bachelor’s degree were those
identifying as other and multiple races, followed by Native American.
Photo Source: SWNewsMedia.com 2018
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D. Demographic Influences on Recreation
Some basic demographics of Prior Lake are highlighted on the following maps to illustrate
population groupings based on age, income and minority populations. This allows a high-
level view of the city to identify population groupings that may have disparities in access
to quality recreation or the types of recreation desired. The one item to note is that the
SMSC lands and populations are served by their own park system but are still taken into
consideration.
The minority population grouping map identifies two areas with the highest minority
populations shown in dark blue. One is on the northwestern edge of Prior Lake which can
be attributed to the SMSC property, and the other location is south of Eagle Creek Avenue
and Hwy 13 where there is higher density housing.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
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The median household income map identifies one grouping of high-income households
shown in dark green greater than $137, 058, which also correlates to the SMSC property
and the Wilds housing development. As the map shows, there are few income areas in
Prior Lake that fall beneath the $86,436 category and those are primarily groupings
located within the downtown district and a stretch of neighborhoods in close proximity to
the school properties.
While the maps are averaging out the income within the groupings, there are several
locations of senior housing and high density / low-income residential housing in Prior Lake
that need to particular attention to ensure there is proper access to open space and
recreation opportunities. These populations can have a higher percentage of residents
who do not own a vehicle, have limited mobility, and lack their own yard space.
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2.3 Stakeholder Engagement & Recreational Trends
A. Input Summary
A comprehensive stakeholder engagement process was undertaken as part of the
planning effort, allowing for a better understanding of the current views, desires and trends
related to parks, trails and recreation. The planning process encompassed a variety of
engagement methods in order to reach a broad diversity of stakeholders and perspectives.
B. Engagement Methods
A variety of engagement methods were used in the planning process to gather input and
feedback on topics related to parks, trails and recreation and allowed for a greater
audience to be reached than is normally found with just the use of standard public open
house meetings.
The following outlines the engagement input methods used during the planning process
with a variety of social media and press methods utilized for project awareness.
Social Pinpoint
Interactive online engagement map
Pop-Up Event & Misc.
Engagement Boards
• Lakefront Days
(Aug.3, 2018)
• Sand Point Beach Party
(Aug. 17, 2018)
• Lakefront Music in the Park
(Aug. 17, 2018)
• Fall Fest at PLS HS
• City Hall Board
• Club Prior Board
• Mayor’s Town Hall Meeting
(Nov. 15, 2018)
Steering Committee Meetings
• #1 Brainstorming
• #2 Data Findings Review
• #3 Draft Plan Review
Stakeholder Interviews & Input
• City Staff
• PLS School District
• SMSC
• Prior Lake Soccer Club
• PLAY & PLABA
• Pickleball Group
• Scott County Parks / Three
Rivers Park District
• City of Prior Lake Hockey
• Citizen Engagement
Committee
• City Council
• MNCAPS
Social Media & Press
• Mayor’s Video w/survey
• Priority Survey
• City of PL Facebook
• Press Releases & Articles
• City of Prior Lake Newsletter
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Pop-Up Meetings
Pop-Up meetings involved setting up a table or booth at various locations and events in
the community in order to go where people would already be, rather than trying to get
them to come to us. Four specific locations and events were targeted to try and reach
varying groups and included:
• Lakefront Days Celebration
• Sand Point Beach – Beach Party
• Lakefront Music in the Park
• Fall Fest at the Prior Lake Savage High School
• Input Bingo boards at various locations
Stakeholder Interviews & Input
Individual meetings were held with select stakeholders in order to gather more in-depth
information related to parks and recreational programs and were primarily focused on
active recreation and athletics in order to understand programming needs. It also included
gathering information from city staff who facilitate recreational programs to better
understand concerns related to providing quality and effective programs that are meeting
the needs of the residents.
A few select groups and organizations were also included in the interviews to participate
in the planning process such as Scott County Parks, the Prior Lake Savage School District
and MNCAPS, which is a student let organization that supplemented input from the teen
demographics.
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Committees, Commissions & City Council
The use of a Steering Committee of approximately 18 to 20 members was included in the
planning process to include diverse members and perspectives based on their affiliation
or area of expertise. The committee members provided input, feedback and acted as
project liaisons to the community or particular associations in order to inform others and
gather additional information. The committee held 3 formal meetings and was also invited
to a park tour with the City Council.
• Meeting #1: Project visioning & brainstorming
• Meeting #2: Preliminary findings review
• Meeting #3: Draft master plan review
Additional input was gathered through the use of online videos and two community
surveys, as well as attendance at both public and informal meetings with the following:
• Citizen Engagement Committee
• City Council
• Mayor’s Town Hall
• Public Open House
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
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Social Pinpoint
An online interactive project map, Social Pinpoint, was developed and utilized through the
stakeholder engagement phase of the project. The online tool has a drag and drop feature
for adding comments, ideas and feedback on a map of Prior Lake with the ability to provide
anonymous information and comment with “Likes” or “Dislikes” on other comments. This
tool was especially helpful in gathering specific concerns or ideas at very specific locations
within the city and to reach those who could not otherwise participate in public meetings.
Over 400 comments were placed on the map and are included in the Appendix.
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C. Recreational Trends
Over the past decade there have been significant changes in recreational trends in
Minnesota and nationally, while other types of recreation continue to remain constant in
popularity. The trends in recreation will continue to evolve and ongoing engagement with
the community is critical to understand what the current needs and demands are so the
city can provide the right types of recreation. It is important to allow for some flexibility in
the system to be able to make the changes necessary to meet these needs.
Trails
Trail use is one type of recreation that continues to
rise in popularity and is generally the most desired
amenity. Wide multi-use and separated trails
generally are more desirable due to increased safety
and the overall quality of the experience than is
found on narrow trails or trails adjacent to, or mixed
with, vehicular traffic.
Seniors / Retirees
Trends related to seniors and retirees is the desire
for more active types of recreation and programs.
Some specific desires and trends for this group
include:
• Pickleball (ability for tournaments)
• Card games
• Social time (coffee shops, wine tasting, etc.)
• Trips / excursions
• E-bikes (electric assisted bikes)
• Activities to enjoy with grandkids
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Youth and Teens
Common trends related to youth recreation remain
to be focused on fun outdoor play, programs and
organized athletics. Field sports like soccer,
lacrosse and rugby are still trending up or are
leveling while other sports, such as football and
baseball, are seeing decreases, though this tends to
vary from community to community. Girls fastpitch is
still remaining fairly level and in some cases seeing
increased participation
While teens tend to be more difficult to reach than
youth, especially girls, many are just looking for
places to hang out with their friends. Trends in this
group has seen increased interest in more
challenging types of recreation. More recently there
has been a dramatic increase in the desire to
participate in, or simply watch, online gaming
events. Trap shooting has also taken off nationwide
and Minnesota in particular has seen significant
increases in participation with trap club tournaments
held state-wide.
Some specific desires and trends for this group
include:
• Full basketball courts
• Skate parks
• Splash pads & water recreation
• Challenge / Ninja course
• E-sports (competitive online gaming)
• Trap shooting / clubs
• Food availability (Door Dash, food trucks)
• Hang out areas / socializing
• Mountain biking / fat tire biking
• Fishing
• Gaga ball
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Convenience & Access
The park, trail and recreation system should allow
for convenient and easy access to varying forms of
recreation to meet the diverse needs and
demographics of the community, as well as
improving physical access with routes and amenities
that meet ADA guidelines.
Many want the ability to participate in recreation
activities and programs without having to purchase
their own gear and equipment, while some do not
have the ability to purchase their own gear due to
financial situations. Ensuring equipment and
activities are available to meet the needs of varying
income levels is important to an active and healthy
community along with reduced or waived fees for
participating.
Many families or individuals also lack the time to plan
out or participate in activities. People live very hectic
lifestyles, kids are highly programmed and there are
those who cannot participate in recreational
programs due to the fact that many programs are
scheduled during standard working hours.
In order to have more successful recreational
programs, cities need to consider some programs
that are outside of standard weekday hours, provide
the ability to utilize equipment to experience or learn
a new type of recreation and ensure there is public
awareness of the programs and recreation available.
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2.4 Findings
The engagement process resulted in a list of items that the community desired and valued the
most, along with ideas for future improvements and additions. Generally, the community felt that
the overall quality of the parks, trails and recreation programs was more important than adding
more to the system and community parks ranking higher in priority than neighborhood parks.
The feedback was organized into the following guiding themes.
Connectivity Quality Sustainability
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Connectivity refers to improved physical access to parks and recreation
and improving the overall sense of community by connecting with the
residents.
Accessibility
Accessibility relates to both the concept of the community having
proper access to parks, trails and recreational programs, as well as
ensuring the system accounts for varying abilities. Specific desires
related to accessibility include:
• Improve public access to the lakes and the ability to
connect with nature
• Inclusive playground (meeting varying needs)
• Ensure access to a high-quality park within each
neighborhood service area
• Recreational programs outside of standard work hours
• Trails and routes meeting ADA guidelines
• Safe pedestrian crossings
• Wayfinding measures throughout the city
Sense of Community
This relates to effectively connecting the residents to their
community by improving the overall sense of belonging. This is
important for numerous reasons and a high sense of belonging can
lead to improved support for future improvements, participation in
programs, and volunteering efforts. Specific desires related to
sense of community include:
• Civic events and programs reaching broader
cultures and diverse users
• Programs located in relation to the
populations being served
• More memorable experiences
• Ongoing community engagement
• Awareness of volunteer opportunities
• Improved “Sense of Place” through distinct
community identity and characteristics
(materials, public art, theming)
• Connect to, and highlight, the culture and
history of the community
Connectivity
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
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The community felt that the overall quality of the parks, trails and recreation
programs was much more important than adding more to the system and
are identified under the following categories.
Community Parks & Recreation
Community parks and recreation ranked very high in terms of
overall priority due to it serving the broader community with a variety
of active and passive recreation and is also a source of revenue for
the city. Specific desires related to community parks include:
• Renovate Lakefront Park due to importance
as key park and the current age/condition of
the amenities
• Redevelop Sand Point Beach to provide a
higher quality park and beach experience
• Improve Thomas Ryan Memorial Park
(parking, drainage, overall quality)
• Improve The Ponds (parking, drainage,
overall quality)
• Develop Pike Lake passive use park
• Additional community park desired with
athletics with the following considerations:
o Large baseball field (1-2)
o 200’ Softball (2-4)
o Indoor or covered turf field
o Flexible space for growth & rotation
o Refrigerated outdoor hockey rink
• Consideration of community center and/or
improved senior and fitness center
Safety
A high-quality system is one that users feel safe in and will lead to
increased participation and overall satisfaction. Specific desires
related to safety include:
• Proper lighting and visibility
• Safe pedestrian crossings
• Proper maintenance and replacement (park
amenities, trails, etc.)
• Consideration of surveillance
Quality
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Experience
The overall quality of parks, trails and recreation is gauged by the
actual experience users have while participating. Specific desires
that would improve the overall experience include:
• Restrooms in parks
• Drinking fountains
• Wifi in parks and improved technology in
meeting or rental spaces
• Locations for shade and rest in parks and
along trails
• Active and social senior programs & trips
• Diverse programs to reach groups that are
more difficult (teens, low-income, new
residents, minority populations, etc.)
• Control of insects and invasive or other
harmful plants (mosquitoes, poison ivy, etc.)
• More diverse parks and playgrounds (avoid
cookie-cutter approach)
• Varying levels of challenge
• Better skate park
• Proper maintenance of amenities
• Improved quality of water and natural
resources
New / Added Recreation
Keeping up with current recreational trends is important to overall
satisfaction and participation for a quality system. Specific desires
related to new and diverse recreation amenities include:
• Pickleball (8)
• Updated programs to encourage use
• Splash pad
• Dog Park
• Rock climbing feature
• Unique play features
• Challenge / ninja course
• Nature play
• Fitness circuits
• 4- season recreation
• Equipment rentals
• Archery
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Sustainability is a broad term and in the context of this plan relates to the
city being able to adequately provide and maintain a healthy and high-
quality system for the community under the following categories.
Consolidation
Consolidation of amenities to provide more unique
experiences while lowering the costs of ongoing
maintenance and replacement was a key goal by the
community and include:
• Avoid over-duplication of amenities /
facilities within service areas
• Provide more complementary and unique
experiences
• Balance the needs of diverse user groups
Sustainable Practices
Specific design, construction and maintenance
procedures can result in higher-quality experiences
with lower costs related to maintenance and
replacement and include:
• Provide adequate parking in relation to the
development and programming
• Program sites appropriately to minimize
over-use and conflicts
• Allow for flexible spaces to account for
future changes and trends
• Utilize construction and maintenance
techniques that will result in a higher quality,
reduced maintenance and longer life-span
• Utilize newer methods or technologies to
maximize efficiency and/or reduce carbon
footprint
• Implement a natural resource management
plan to aid the resistance of the natural
spaces against ongoing pests and diseases
and improve pollinator habitats
Sustainability
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2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 29
Oversight and Management
Oversight of the parks, trail and recreation system
is necessary to ensure a successfully managed
system to implement the needs and includes the
following tasks:
• Financial oversight / revenue generation
• Identify and apply for funding opportunities
• Promote partnerships
• Community engagement
• Establish and update priorities for
implementation
• Manage staff
2.5 Recreation Design Standards
The National Park and Recreation Association (NRPA) is an organization that strives to
provide access and recreation to all people, no matter the race, age, income level or ability.
The NRPA provides tools and resources to local park and recreation agencies to get the
community engaged, participate in programs, and to funding opportunities to meet goals.
The NRPA focuses on three pillars:
Health and Wellness
“Leading the nation to improved health and wellness through parks and
recreation”
Conservation
“Protecting open space, connecting children to nature, and engaging
communities in conservation practices”
Places for Everyone
“Ensuring all people have access to the benefits of local parks and
recreation”
The NRPA has park metrics and ratios that can be used to evaluate the existing park
system in comparison to similar communities. There are numerous factors that come into
play beyond the overall population-based standards and it is recommended that cities
conduct routine evaluations to determine how their overall system is functioning based on
more specific data to identify improvement opportunities.
The following are general comparisons and ratios determined by the NRPA for park design
and recreation standards based on communities with similar populations in order to
evaluate some typical amenities, though these can vary based on the park system goals
and objectives, trends and other specific community needs. This is especially true for
programmed athletics which are dictated by current participation rates, rather than total
population, and Prior Lake athletics include adjacent communities with a shared school
district.
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2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 30
Prior Lake is estimated at a population of 26,840 and in most cases exceeds the minimum
recommendations and national comparisons provided by the NRPA.
NRPA Metrix Comparison City of Prior Lake
1 park per 1,849 residents
served
56 Designated Parks (all developed and undeveloped)
= 1 park per 479 residents
38 Developed Parks
= 1 park per 706 residents
9.6 acres of parkland per
1,000 residents
56 Designated Parks (all developed and undeveloped)
= about 30 acres per 1,000 residents
Developed Parks
= about 20 acres per 1,000 residents
1 playground per 3,600
residents
1 playground per 706 residents
1 basketball court per 3,600
residents
1 court per 1,100 residents
1 ballfield per 6,519
residents
1 Ballfield (all) per 840 residents
1 Ballfield (suitable for programmed use)
per 2,184 residents
1 ice rink per 17,310
residents
1 outdoor rink per 13,420 residents
1 tennis court per 4,545
residents
1 outdoor court per 13,420 residents
The following is a comparison between Prior Lake and adjoining or similar communities
based on information from the Trust for Public Land ParkServe R
Tool.
City Population % Within ½
Mile
% Land Parks # Parks
Prior Lake 26,840 85% 12% 56
Savage 31,694 85% 8% 23
Shakopee 41,362 72% 5% 40
Lakeville 65,877 78% 7% 88
Rosemount 24,607
89% 3% 26
The NRPA standards recommend that one quality developed park be located within 1/2
mile of every household, which is considered a 10-minute walk.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
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Prior Lake generally meets the goal of having a developed park within 1/2 mile to
households, though in a few instances there were some areas outside of this distance and
in other instances, there was an overlap of service distances.
One item to note is that some households may be located within a 1/2 mile of a park, but
there may be a barrier for safe and adequate access to that park, such as a major
roadway, water body, etc.
The following identifies the number of amenities currently in the Prior Lake park system.
Park Amenity Description Existing
Archery Range 1
Ballfields 32
Basketball Courts 24
Beach 2
Concessions 5
Hockey Rinks 2
Horseshoe Pits 4
Play Equipment 38
Pleasure Skating Rink 3
Picnic Shelter 50
Pickleball Courts 8*
Restrooms 7
Skatepark 1
Soccer/Football Fields 5
Tennis Courts 2*
Volleyball Courts 8
*(8) Pickleball courts are striped on the tennis courts at Lakefront Park.
The system was mapped to identify neighborhood service areas based on known barriers
in order to correctly identify gaps. Prior Lake has approximately 34 neighborhood service
areas.
The following maps include:
• Existing ½ Mile Gap Analysis (developed parks only)
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2.6 System Assessments
A. Park Building Assessments
An architectural assessment was completed for specific park buildings, that included the
following:
• Lakefront Park Main Pavilion
• Watzl’s Beach Concessions Building
• Sand Point Beach Concessions Building
The assessments considered overall age, condition, accessibility, and specific code
compliance or safety concerns that were identified. The assessments were completed to
provide knowledge of specific items that are of concern for improvements and to
understand the overall context of costs related to repairs or replacements. This section
provides a high-level overview of the results of the assessments and more in-depth
information can be found in the Appendix.
Lakefront Park Main Pavilion
The assessment did not identify any major problems and is currently functioning as
intended, though is nearing the end of its useful life with items in need of improvements
or replacement. There were also items identified as desired to allow the building to function
better for the user groups.
At the time of the assessment, it was determined that various improvements would
improve the overall function and desirability of the building, though more in-depth studies
would need to be completed to determine if the costs for renovation are more cost-effective
than a full building replacement.
Watzl’s Beach & Sand Point Beach Concessions
The assessments identified ADA accessibility as the primary concern related to access to
the buildings, as well as proper access within the building areas for both. The buildings
are both older and nearing the end of their useful life but still functioning. Watzl’s had little
overall damage though in 2018 there was failure to the retaining wall around the building.
At the time of the assessment, it was determined that various improvements would
improve the overall function and desirability of the buildings. The buildings could be
renovated for approximately $200,000 each and a new building would be approximately
$400,000 each, depending on programming. While the costs to renovate are more cost-
effective than a full replacement, the overall life span and desirability of the facility will
affect decision making regarding the funding approach.
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2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 35
B. Park Assessments
A general assessment was completed for each park site to evaluate how the park was
meeting the service needs of the community based on overall design, character, condition
of the amenities, age of the amenities, and accessibility. This evaluation was based on a
numerical rating for each category and individual assessments should be referenced to
understand in greater detail what specifically contributed to the rating score given.
Overall, the parks have been maintained very well, are very inviting and appear to be in
good condition. Specific concerns upon closer inspection show that many park amenities
are older in age, as many of the parks were developed 15 or more years ago and are now
reaching the end of their useful life and are in need of replacement. Other specific items
are related to accessibility which can sometimes be easily remedied.
The park ratings are color coded according to the following rating breakdowns:
• Black = Not Rated
this was generally for park sites that were undeveloped at the time of the
assessment.
• Purple = Exceptional; rated greater than 75%
o High quality facility exceeding minimum standards
o Generally newer in age and in very good condition
o Minor improvements or maintenance needs
• Green = Good; rated at 61%-75%
o Meets or exceeds minimum standards
o Generally mid-level in age to newer and in good condition
o Adequate for now, minor improvements identified
• Yellow = Adequate; rated at 40%-60%
o Meets minimum standards
o Generally mid-level in age or older and in fair condition
o Some varying improvements likely required, approaching end of life
• Red = Low; rated below 40%
o Does not meet minimum standards
o Generally older in age and in less than ideal condition
o Liability, requires more immediate attention
Additional evaluations were completed to determine the neighborhood parks that would
be of higher priority for improvements based on current condition, location and
neighborhood service area, ability to program, and the populations served. The following
maps include:
• Park Descriptions & Assessment Ratings
• Park Ratings Map w/neighborhood service area boundaries, parks utilized for
recreational programs within the past 3 years, and parks with 300 or greater
children within a 1/2 mile radius
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C. Trail Assessments
Prior Lake generally has a good system of trails and pedestrian routes but there are some
major gaps identified by the community and some trails that are in poor condition.
There are currently no complete regional trail corridors in Prior Lake, though there are
segments of the planned Scott County West Regional Trail that starts on the north side of
Spring Lake Regional Park and go south-east to connect up to Cleary Lake Regional Park,
as identified in the red box below.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 41
A general assessment was completed for the existing trail system to evaluate existing
gaps, pedestrian crossing concerns, and trail segments that rank as higher priority for
repairs and replacements due to the specific trail route, condition and community need.
Though most of the trails were in fair to good condition, some trail areas will need to be
replaced or repaired (seal-coating) in the near future.
A summary of issues and barriers was developed based on a review of existing city
documents, public engagement activities, and an analysis of existing and proposed trail
corridors. Some common gaps and issues that were identified during the planning
process included:
• Highway 13 was identified as a major barrier and was also the most commonly
desired trail gap to be completed. The intersections along this highway were
noted to be of safety concerns for pedestrians as well as vehicles. Schools and
senior populations had repeated comments about safely crossing from south to
north for access to Lakefront Park and the downtown business district.
• Strong desire for improved connections to Cleary Lake Regional Park, Spring
Lake Regional Park and Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve.
• Strong desire for improved pedestrian connectivity to the lakes in the community.
Specific water bodies mentioned included Upper and Lower Prior Lake, Spring
Lake, Pike Lake, Markley Lake, and Arctic Lake.
• Desire for improved pedestrian connections between Thomas Ryan Memorial
Park and The Ponds Park.
Some of these issues will be resolved as the city continues to develop its proposed
network of biking and walking facilities. Others will require specific attention to facility
design and proactive identification of opportunities to shape planned roadway projects to
better accommodate biking and walking facilities, as well as joint cooperation between
various agencies, such as MnDOT and Scott County.
The following Pedestrian Analysis map illustrates some commonly identified trail gaps,
pedestrian crossing concerns, trail safety issues, and trails that had a poor quality that
resulted from the community engagement process.
The following map illustrates:
• Existing trail gaps
• Pedestrian safety concerns (crossings)
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CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 2: Assessment of Need
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2.7 Needs Assessment Summary
Several key themes were identified during the needs assessment that, when combined
with goals and priorities, helped to develop the recommendations and priorities for
implementation.
Improve Connectivity
• Close trail gaps
• Connect to primary destinations
• Ensure access to a quality park within each service area
• Improve convenience
• Improve ADA across the system
• Improve sense of place
• Incorporate wayfinding measures
Improve Overall Quality
• Improve quality of the community parks
• Provide adequate parking at community facilities
• Ensure parks and trails are properly maintained
• Ensure a quality park within 1/2 mile to places of residence
• Meet current recreational needs & trends
• Incorporate improved safety measures
Improve Sustainability
• Avoid over-duplication of facilities
• Program site accordingly
• Incorporate flexible spaces
• Utilize newer methods and technology to minimize ongoing
maintenance and operations
• Utilize proper construction methods and materials
• Ensure proper oversight and management of park system
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 3: Community Vision
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 45
3.1 Overview
The City of Prior Lake Vision Statement defines the long-term vision that the community
is to aspire to for parks, trails and recreation. A set of goals and objectives define high
level statements that will help achieve the overall vision statement and are meant to guide
decision-making processes for future development and priorities.
3.2 Vision Statement
The following vision statement was developed during the planning process that defines
the vision that Prior Lake aspires to attain by the year 2040.
3
Community Vision
The City of Prior Lake contains safe, attractive and fun
outdoor recreational experiences that encourage a healthy
lifestyle, meet the diverse needs of its residents, connect
people to the outdoors, preserve the natural resources and
open spaces, and highlight its cultural resources.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 3: Community Vision
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 46
3.3 Goals and Objectives
The following goals are broad statements that reflect specific parts of the Vision Statement
for parks, trails and recreation and build upon the goals and objectives identified in the
Prior Lake 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
The goals represent the end conditions that the City of Prior Lake is striving to attain. The
objectives are key actions or strategies that are intended to accomplish the stated goal.
A. Goal: Provide an interconnected and accessible park,
trail and greenway system for recreation and
transportation.
Trail Connection Objectives
i. Support active living and wellness by
connecting residents to parks, schools,
adjacent communities, and regional
destinations with quality multi-use trails and
safe pedestrian crossings.
ii. Connect residents to varying natural
environments for improved physical and
mental health while encouraging ongoing
stewards.
iii. Provide a variety of trail types and
experiences that will meet the varying needs
and preferences of the diverse users.
Accessibility Objectives
i. Provide a balanced and sustainable system of
parks, trails and open spaces within a half-
mile of Prior Lake households.
ii. Construct, maintain and identify ADA
compliant park amenities, trails and access
routes.
iii. Provide public access to lakes and water
bodies for viewing, enjoyment and water
related recreational activities.
Connectivity
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 3: Community Vision
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 47
iv. Use print, broadcast, and website medias to
promote community civic events and
celebrations in various methods and
languages, consistent with the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA).
v. Provide a variety of transit and multi-modal
opportunities for residents to access parks
and recreational areas from their place of
residence.
Sense of Community Objectives
i. Provide convenient and diverse recreational
programs and opportunities for varying age
groups, income levels, interests and abilities.
ii. Strengthen community identity through the
use of attractive and effective wayfinding
signage, public art, pedestrian furniture,
lighting and materials.
iii. Foster a sense of community and cultural
diversity through community celebrations,
collaborations and volunteer opportunities.
iv. Implement inclusive design practices to
encourage social interaction and strengthen
inclusion.
v. Develop strategies for routinely engaging with
the community to identify and meet the
programming needs of the community and
promote participation.
vi. Communicate success stories to the public to
identify the direct benefits to the community.
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2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 48
B. Goal: Create a unique and high-quality park and trail
system that responds to the evolving demands of
recreational trends, populations, demographics, and
income levels.
Objectives
i. Create a flexible, unique and high-quality
system that responds to varying interests and
evolving recreational trends.
ii. Prioritize development, maintenance and
improvements at community parks to sustain
at a high-quality performance level.
iii. Develop, improve and maintain a minimum of
one high-quality neighborhood park within
each neighborhood service area.
iv. Provide proper lighting and security measures
at appropriate locations.
v. Reserve prime recreational lands, such as
shoreline, significant natural areas and
greenway corridors ahead of development
and redevelopment.
vi. Implement a natural resource management
plan for proper management of quality natural
resource areas that enhance the community
characteristics.
vii. Provide proper oversight and management of
the park, trail and recreation system by a
qualified park professional.
viii. Implement recommendations of the Park and
Trail System Master Plan.
ix. Budget for and prioritize the development,
maintenance and replacement of trails and
park amenities through dedicated funding
from the Prior Lake Capital Improvements
Plan.
Quality
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 3: Community Vision
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 49
C. Goal: Create a sustainable park, trail and recreation
system that adequately meets the needs of the
community.
Objectives
i. Minimize over-duplication of amenities
through consolidation and complementary
opportunities and experiences.
ii. Maximize partnership opportunities through
the development of fair and equitable working
joint partnerships.
iii. Seek grants and other funding mechanisms to
supplement city funding.
iv. Identify and update revenue-generating
mechanisms to help support ongoing
maintenance and improvements.
v. Utilize quality construction methods and
materials that may have higher initial costs
but will result in an increased life span and
reduced maintenance needs.
vi. Protect and manage the parks, trails and
natural resources through sustainable
management methods and policies.
vii. Foster environmental stewardship through
awareness, educational programs and grant
opportunities to promote environmental
practices.
viii. Prioritize capital improvement projects that
are in line with community sentiment and
interests.
ix. Acknowledge the balance necessary between
ongoing operations and maintenance needs
of existing facilities in relation to development
of new facilities.
x. Incorporate newer methods, technology and
equipment that increase efficiency in terms of
energy, maintenance and replacement.
Sustainability
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CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 51
4.1 Overview
The City of Prior Lake currently has a total of 55 designated parks in its system along with
one regional park located within the city. Each park plays a unique role in meeting the
needs of the community, but the primary goal of parks is to improve the health and well-
being of communities by protecting its natural resources and providing an appropriate
blend of active and passive recreational amenities with access to nature for all residents.
The recommendations of the park system plan are based on having a more sustainable
park system that will meet the current and future needs of the community while reducing
over-duplication of facilities and allowing for improved flexibility for accommodating future
recreational needs, trends and changing demographics.
4
Park System Plan
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 52
4.2 Park Classification Guidelines & Design Standards
A. Park Classifications
The following table provides an overview of general park classification types, sizes and
descriptions of each along with the number of each type of park located within the Prior
Lake system. The information in the size and description of each park classification is a
generalization, as there are always special circumstances that can affect the overall size,
use and ultimately, the designation.
Park
Classification
Typical Size
(Acres)
General Description
# Parks
Current
# Parks
Proposed
Natural Parks/
Open Space &
Preserves
Varies Lands for preservation of natural
resources, remnant landscapes,
open space, and buffers. Can
provide passive use opportunities
such as nature trails, overlooks, and
interpretive programs. Sometimes
encompasses storm water features.
8 15
Mini Park Up to 2 acres Usually incorporated at the
neighborhood level or small urban
pocket parks used to address limited,
isolated or unique park needs.
0 1
Neighborhood
Parks
5 acres
minimum
recommended
10 acres
optimal
A basic unit of the park system that
serves a recreational and social
purpose. Development focuses on
informal active and passive
recreation at a neighborhood level.
39 32
Community
Parks / Athletic
Complex
20 acres
minimum
recommended
Larger in scale and serving broader
community recreational needs. The
primary objective is to meet wide-
ranging and clearly defined
community recreation, athletics and
social needs. Development focuses
on both active and passive
recreation, with a wide array of
programmed activities often being
accommodated. These parks may
contain dedicated community uses
such as athletic complexes, venue,
community pool, or special use.
5 6
Special Use
Parks
Varies Covers a broad range of parks and
recreation facilities oriented toward
single-purpose or specialized uses
such as historic sites, urban plazas
and memorials, specialized
recreation, etc.
2 3
Regional Parks
& Park
Preserves
Varies Regional parks are generally larger
in size and intended to serve users
from the greater region. Regional
parks and preserves vary greatly in
size, though typically they are 50
acres or greater and many are
natural resource based.
1 1
Park Totals: 55 58
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 53
The following table provides an overview of each park name, acreage and classification
according to the current existing classifications and proposed as part of the recommendations of
this park system plan.
C = Community N = Neighborhood NM = Neighborhood Mini Park
O = Open Space/Natural S = Special Use
Park Classification Table
Park Name Acres Classification
Existing
Classification
Proposed
Boudins 1.25 N N
Butternut*1 - N -
Cardinal Ridge A (Markley) 2 N N
Cardinal Ridge B (Lawn) 2 N O
Cardinal Ridge Open Space 40 N O
Carriage Hills 5 N N
Crystal Lake 4.6 N O
Deerfield 26.5 N N
Eagle Brook 3 N N
Enclave at Cleary 4 N N
Fairway Heights 12.9 O O
Fish Point 9 N O
Glynwater 11.9 N N
Grainwood Crossing 2 N S
Green Oaks 2 N N
Haas Lake 11.2 O O
Heritage*2 2 S S
Hickory Shores 27.3 O O
Horkey at Shepherds 15.8 N O
Howard Lake 5.65 N N
Indian Ridge 1.5 N N
Island View 4 N N
Jeffers Pond Park 4 N N
Jeffers Pond Preserve 13.76 N O
Knob Hill 13.5 N N
Lakefront 141.18 C C
Meadow View 2.1 N N
Memorial 11.5 C C
North Shore Oaks 5 N O
Northwood 1 N N
Northwood Meadows 3.5 N N
Oakland Beach 1.5 N N
Pike Lake 34.15 O O
Raspberry Ridge 16 N N
Raspberry Woods 22 O O
Raymond 2.6 N N
Rice Lake 16.8 N N
Rotary Gateway 0.63 N S
Sand Point Beach 20 C C
Sand Point Park 6 N N
South Shore 1.4 N N
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 54
Park Classification Table
Spring Lake*3 41.7 - C
Stonebriar 0.2 N NM
Sunset Hills 3.5 N N
The Ponds 70 C C
Thomas Ryan Memorial 38.4 C C
Timbercrest 2.8 N N
Trillium*4 11.5 - N
Watzl’s Point Beach 3 S C
Westbury Ponds 22 N O
Whitetail Island 16 O O
Wilderness Pond 20 N N
Wilds 7.8 N N
Wilds North 8.4 N N
Willows 2.5 N N
Woodridge 7.0 N N
Woods at the Wilds 2.5 O O
Woodview 16 O O
Total 783.5
*1 Butternut is currently listed as a Neighborhood Park under the city’s park classifications.
Recommendations include removing this designation, as this is not suitable for any current
park classification.
*2 Heritage Park is currently listed as a Special Use under the city’s park classifications.
Though recommendations of this park may alter land use, the Special Use designation
remains as part of Grainwood Crossing Park.
*3 Spring Lake Park is currently not listed under the city’s park classifications due to the fact
it was not developed at the time of this plan. Recommended classification of Community Park
will be dictated by final programmed use and is subject to change.
*4 Trillium Park was not developed at the time of this plan but is planned to be a small
neighborhood park within natural open space.
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Natural Parks / Open Space and Preserves
Natural parks, open spaces and preserve areas are intended to be lands set aside for
protection of natural resources such as lakes, wooded areas, wetlands, and prairies. They
provide a broad diversity of plant and animal habitat and contribute to the overall character
of the community. They can provide passive recreational opportunities with the inclusion
of trails, overlooks, interpretation, bird watching, etc. Storm water features can be
designated as open space but should not be counted as dedicated park lands.
There are currently 8 parks identified as natural or open space parks. The
recommendations include a total of 15 parks to be identified as natural parks, open spaces
and preserves to include the following, with the altered park classifications shown in bold.
1. Cardinal Ridge B (Lawn)
2. Crystal Lake
3. Fairway Heights
4. Fish Point
5. Haas Lake
6. Hickory Shores
7. Horkey Park at Shepherds Path
8. Jeffers Pond Preserve
9. North Shore Oaks
10. Pike Lake
11. Raspberry Woods
12. Westbury Ponds
13. Whitetail Island
14. Woods at the Wilds
15. Woodview
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Neighborhood Parks
Neighborhood parks serve the recreational needs of the greater community but are
intended to be strategically located within a 10-minute walk (half-mile) of residents based
on the National Recreation and Park Association recommendations.
Neighborhood parks bring people together to recreate and socialize close to home and
offer activities and spaces that cannot be accommodated in residential yards, especially
for populations currently lacking residential yard space for recreation. Providing a
balanced set of amenities that appeal to a broad range of individuals is important to
meeting contemporary park needs and new recreational trends – although active, non-
programmed recreation remains the mainstay of neighborhood parks.
Trail connections and greenways linked to the parks offer a conduit for pedestrians to get
to the park in a safe and appealing manner. Greenways also expand the park experience
itself, whereby the neighborhood park becomes less of a defined space and more of a
linear park experience. The effect of connecting neighborhood parks with the trails and
greenway system is that the spacing between individual parks can often be greater than
traditional standards suggest. The system plan is based on this principle, with the trail and
greenway system playing a role in determining the number and location of neighborhood
parks necessary to meet community demands.
A number of key criteria will continue to be the basis for determining the designation and
location of neighborhood parks, including:
• A service area radius taking into consideration the location of major roads and
other physical barriers that limit the service area, such as extensive wetlands or
lake systems.
• Property characteristics suitable for park purposes
• Connection to neighborhoods via the trail and greenway system
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Desirable property characteristics for future neighborhood parks include:
• An appropriate location that is central to the surrounding service area, has street
frontage, is uninterrupted by major physical barriers, and linked to the trail and
greenway system.
• Exhibiting the physical characteristics appropriate for active and passive uses. This
includes adequate developable upland to accommodate typical neighborhood park
amenities, ranging from active open space to play areas and trails.
• Exhibiting an aesthetic characteristic befitting a park, which is defined as: open
space for active use; a natural landscape with mature trees and quality natural
vegetation for its aesthetic and passive use qualities. Although natural resources
within a park setting is desirable, designated wetlands or other non-upland
protected areas and storm water treatment ponds and basins should not be
included in the acreage calculation for a neighborhood park.
The specific design of neighborhood parks responds to the localized needs of the
neighborhood where they are located and character of the park. Typically, 5 acres’
minimum of upland are preferred for suitable recreational development with additional
natural open space acreage, though this can vary. The general palette of amenities
typically found within this classification of park can include, but is not limited to, some of
the following:
• Playground meeting varying age groups
• Trails (loops preferable)
• Open green space for informal use (2 acres optimal)
• Programmed or non-programmed ballfields or multi-use turf fields (1-2 fields
optimal)
• Basketball (half or full)
• Tennis (potentially, but preferable at a community park)
• Volleyball (potentially, but preferable at a community park)
• Skating Rink (varies from hockey rink to pleasure rink)
• Picnic shelter (generally smaller, 2-4 table occupancy)
• General site amenities (benches, tables, trash & recycling, bike racks, etc.)
• Parking (on-street typically sufficient, off-street parking added for more highly
developed sites and programmed fields)
• Natural open space
While neighborhood parks can accommodate a variety of amenities, overall design should
focus on providing an appropriate blend of amenities meeting varying age groups
consistent with the natural character of the surrounding neighborhood without over-
developing the park. Park designs should be complementary to other nearby
neighborhood parks to avoid a “cookie-cutter” approach to design and allowing for greater
needs to be met.
Mini Parks generally fall within the neighborhood park classification but are smaller in size,
typically up to 2 acres. While limited in amenities, they tend to help service particular needs
of the community, such as high-density housing areas, and will generally contain a tot-lot.
Some special use parks can also fall within the mini park designation for small urban
plaza’s or memorial spaces but may tend to be classified as a community or special use
park, depending on use.
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There are currently 39 neighborhood parks identified in the existing park system. The
recommendations of this park system plan include a total of 32 parks to be identified as a
Neighborhood Park which includes those with a mini park classification. Added parks are
shown in bold and an alternate list identifies parks that have been removed from the
Neighborhood park classification and classified elsewhere:
1. Boudins
2. Cardinal Ridge A (Markley)
3. Carriage Hills
4. Deerfield
5. Eagle Brook
6. Enclave at Cleary
7. Fish Point
8. Glynwater
9. Green Oaks
10. Howard Lake
11. Indian Ridge
12. Island View
13. Jeffers Pond
14. Knob Hill
15. Meadow View
16. Northwood
17. Northwood Meadows
18. Oakland Beach
19. Raspberry Ridge
20. Raymond
21. Rice Lake
22. Sand Point
23. South Shore
24. Stonebriar (Mini)
25. Sunset Hills
26. Timber Crest
27. Trillium
28. Wilderness Pond
29. Wilds
30. Wilds North
31. Willows
32. Woodridge
1. Butternut (removed from
park listing)
2. Cardinal Ridge B (Lawn)
changed to Open Space
3. Crystal Lake changed to
Open Space
4. Fish Point changed to
Open Space
5. Horkey Park at Shepherds
Path changed to Open
Space
6. Jeffers Pond Preserve
changed to Open Space
7. North Shore Oaks
changed to Open Space
8. Westbury Ponds changed
to Open Space
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Community Parks
Community parks serve a broader purpose than neighborhood parks. Their focus is on
meeting community-based recreational and social needs, as well as preserving unique
landscapes and open spaces. Community parks allow for consolidated programmed adult
and youth athletic facilities and can also include specialized facilities such as
neighborhood activity centers, amphitheaters, pools, skate parks, etc. Community parks
should include adequate parking to meet the needs of the users based upon the number
and types of activities available.
The specific design of community parks should respond to the needs of the overall
community. The community needs of Prior Lake include additional needs by the City of
Savage due to the combined school district, and the community needs should be balanced
across both communities, particularly in terms of athletics.
The general palette of amenities typically found within this classification of park can
include, but is not limited to, some of the following:
• Playground meeting varying age groups and accessibility needs
• Trails (multiple loops preferable)
• Open green space
• Programmed ballfields or turf fields with related facilities (lights, irrigation,
concessions, etc.)
• Basketball (half or full)
• Tennis
• Pickleball
• Volleyball
• Hockey rink
• Picnic shelters (larger groups)
• Restrooms (permanent desirable)
• Drinking water
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• General site amenities (benches, tables, trash & recycling, bike racks, etc.)
• Parking (sufficient for programmed activities)
• Natural open space
• Special uses (skate parks, splash pads, beaches, etc.)
There are currently 5 community parks identified in the existing park system. The
recommendations of this plan include a total of 6 parks to be identified as a community
park, with Watzl’s being added to this classification from the previous designation of
Special Use. The community parks include the following:
In order to understand overall community parks servicing a broader school district region
in terms of athletics, it should be noted that Savage currently has 6 parks that could fall
into the community park designation that help supplement the athletic needs of the
shared school district.
1. Canterbury Park (20 acres)
2. Hidden Valley Park (45 acres)
3. O’Connell Park (26 acres)
4. Savage Community Park (55 acre Athletic Complex with McColl Pond
Environmental Learning Center)
5. Schroeder’s Acres Park (20 acres)
6. Warren Butler Park (26 acres)
1. Lakefront Park: At a total of 141.18 acres and located adjacent to
downtown Prior Lake, Lakefront Park is a true community park gem
containing a variety of active and passive amenities, including Watzl’s
Beach and the Kop Farm community gardens. It is the primary location for
numerous civic events such as Lakefront Days and the Lakefront Music
Fest and is highly programmed.
2. Watzl’s Point Beach: A 3-acre parcel within Lakefront Park dedicated as
a community public beach along Lower Prior Lake.
3. Memorial Park: Memorial Park is the location of the Town Ballfield with
additional neighborhood park amenities and is 11.5 acres.
4. Thomas Ryan Memorial Park: Thomas Ryan is a 38.4 acre athletic
complex with a ballfield wheel and soccer fields.
5. Sand Point Beach Park: Sand Point Beach is a 20-acre park with adjacent
DNR boat launch on Lower Prior Lake containing a public swimming
beach with related amenities.
6. The Ponds Park: The Ponds is a 70-acre athletic complex with ballfields, a
large baseball field, football fields and related amenities.
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Special Use Parks
Special use parks tend to provide a unique feature oriented toward single-purpose or
specialized uses such as historic sites, urban plazas and memorials, and other types of
specialized recreation.
There are currently 2 parks identified as special use. The recommendations include a total
of 3 parks to be identified as a Special Use park that adds in Grainwood Crossing and the
Rotary Gateway to this designation and removes Watzl’s Point Beach, which has been
recommended to be classified as Community Park. The recommended Special Use parks
are as follows:
1. Grainwood Crossing: A small park falling under the
designation of Special Use due to the historic nature
of the previous resort site of the Grainwood Hotel and
Park located adjacent to a railroad line.
2. Heritage Park: Additional land adjacent to Grainwood
Crossing that has an ornamental walk and benches
which can be classified separately or as part of
Grainwood Crossing.
3. Rotary Gateway: A small park space falling under the
designation of Special Use due to the community
aspect of the park as a gateway connection between
downtown Prior Lake and Lakefront Park.
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Regional Parks
Regional Parks add considerably to the open space character of the community and meet
additional recreational needs of the community, as well as the broader region. While there
is one regional park located within Prior Lake, there are two additional regional parks
adjacent to, or within close proximity to, Prior Lake that supplement the city park system
with varying recreational experiences.
• Spring Lake Regional Park: Spring Lake Regional Park contains 374 acres of park
land on the north shore of Spring Lake Park and is located within Prior Lake. The
park boasts diverse natural habitats with old Maple-Basswood forests, wetlands,
bogs, a tamarack bog, and 3 miles of trails. It also contains a dog park located on
the NW corner and adjoins the City of Prior Lake’s Spring Lake Park. The park is
operated under a joint powers’ agreement between Scott County and Three Rivers
Park District.
• Cleary Lake Regional Park: Cleary Lake Regional Park is located along the SE
border of Prior Lake. It contains year-round recreation with a golf course,
campground, picnic areas, cross-country ski trails, swimming beach, dog park, and
a 3.5-mile trail around Cleary Lake. The park is operated under a joint powers’
agreement between Scott County and Three Rivers Park District.
• Murphy Hanrehan Park Reserve: Murphy Hanrehan Park Reserve is located in
northeast Scott County. It is promoted as a primarily undeveloped park with the
exception of a dog off-leash area and trails including challenging cross-country ski
trails and a single-track mountain bike trail surrounded by an abundance of natural
open spaces. The park is a designated Important Bird Area by the National
Audubon Society. The park is operated under a joint powers’ agreement between
Scott County and Three Rivers Park District.
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School District 719
The Prior Lake-Savage Area School District 719 and the SMSC offer joint-use
opportunities with the City of Prior Lake for shared use facilities. Taking full advantage of
these partnership opportunities will continue to be important if programmed recreational
needs are to be met. This is especially the case with athletics.
The school district has numerous types of athletic fields and recreational amenities across
their school sites, but they also rely on city parks for some of their athletic needs. The
school district also utilizes parks and open spaces for their curriculum needs as they are
a STEM focused school district and are in need of natural resource-based areas within
walking distance from the school locations for educational programming.
The following schools are within the Prior Lake-Savage School District with a variety of
recreational amenities that supplement the recreational needs of the community
• Edgewood School (Spanish Immersion)
• Five Hawks Elementary School
• Glendale Elementary School (Savage)
• Grainwood Elementary School
• Hidden Oaks Middle School
• Jeffers Pond Elementary School
• Prior Lake High School (in Savage, but along border of Prior Lake)
• Redtail Ridge Elementary School (Savage)
• Twin Oaks Middle School / Bridges ALC
• Westwood Elementary School / SAGE (gifted students)
Due to expansion and modifications of school sites to meet the school district needs, the
types of recreational fields and amenities continues to be altered. The city and school
district will need to continue to work collaboratively to ensure that an appropriate blend of
amenities is available in order to avoid a deficit for any particular group.
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Club Prior
An additional recreation resource the city owns and operates is Club Prior, an activity
center for seniors / retiree’s which shares space with the Library. The City works in close
cooperation with ISD 719 Community Education, Keystone Communities, McKenna
Crossing, Lakefront Plaza, the YMCA and more in terms of operation and programming.
Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC)
Currently the SMSC has their own neighborhood and community parks that serve their
community, but they rely on joint partnerships for other types of recreation, particularly
athletics and trail systems. The SMSC has offered various grant funds towards trails and
athletic facilities, which has benefitted the City of Prior Lake for supplementing
implementation funding.
The SMSC owns and operates the Dakotah! Sport and Fitness Center and Ice Center,
along with the Meadows golf course, which has the following amenities:
• Fitness club
• Ice center (2 indoor NHL sized rinks)
• Walking track
• Aquatic center, hot tub, steam rooks and saunas
• Gymnasium and courts
• Bowling
• Golf course
The Dakotah! Sport and Fitness Center has a membership fee and while they have a
specific program for the senior/retiree group, they do not participate in the Silver Sneakers
program which has led to more demand on city programs by this particular age group at
Club Prior.
The ice rink is home to the Prior Lake High School hockey teams and the Prior Lake-
Savage Youth Hockey Association.
Summary
Joint partnerships will continue to be essential to meeting community needs. If a future
development of an additional recreational complex facility is considered, it would benefit
the school district, the SMSC, city recreational programming, and athletic associations.
The City of Prior Lake should continually ensure there are active joint use agreements in
place and that there is a clear understanding of the responsibilities of all parties involved
to avoid confusion or duplication of efforts. The agreements would be renewed on an
annual basis unless either party provides written notice at least thirty days prior to January
1 of each year.
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4.3 Park System Plan & Recommendations
A. Overview
The park system plan and recommendations are a direct result of the planning process
which took the following into consideration to ensure the city has a balanced and
equitable system:
• Project Vision Statement
• Needs assessment findings
• Project goals and objectives
• Priorities
The recommendations in this document may contain supplementary imagery,
descriptions, or schematic concept plans to illustrate a particular appearance or idea but
is not considered to be a final design approach. When it comes to final decision-making
regarding proposed improvements, developments or planning, it is highly recommended
to approach each project with continued input from stakeholders. Stakeholder buy-in is
essential for a successful project to ensure the project is meeting the current needs of
those it is intended to serve, especially if funded by local tax dollars.
It is equally important to approach projects and recommendations in line with overall city
goals and priorities and not just according to the loudest group making demands. The city
should conduct ongoing evaluation of priorities on a routine basis to account for changes
and opportunities that may arise and adjust priorities as necessary.
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B. Summary of Recommendations
The following section provides the general recommendations and guidance for
improvements, modifications to the overall park system, followed by individual park listings
with amenities, ratings, and more detailed recommendations. The recommendations and
priorities should be evaluated on a routine basis to ensure they stay in line with the needs
of the community. The following recommendations have been developed in response to
the results of the planning process.
High Priority Recommendations
• Prioritize improvements and development of community parks that serve the
greater needs of the community to include;
o Renovation of Lakefront Park/Watzl’s Beach to meet current programming
demands as a key community park.
o Improvements to Thomas Ryan Memorial and The Ponds to meet athletic
needs, with a search for a future community park to help supplement
additional athletic and recreational needs of the growing community.
o Full redevelopment of Sand Point Beach to be a prime destination
community park focused on water recreation.
o Complete development of Pike Lake Park as a natural resource based
passive use park with water recreation.
o Improvements to Memorial Park as the location for the town ballfield with
additional park recreational amenities.
o Secure lands suitable for the development of an additional community park.
50-80 acres preferable.
• Within each neighborhood service area, ensure one high-quality developed park
based on varying criteria such as suitability for development, recreational
programming and having 300 or more children within a 1/2 mile radius.
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Connectivity
• Use trails, walks and wayfinding measures to connect people to the parks, primary
destination areas, lakes and water bodies, and significant natural resource areas
with safe pedestrian crossings.
• Improve accessibility by adding pedestrian connections, illustrating ADA compliant
routes and amenities, ensure new development and improvements meet ADA
guidelines, and includes inclusive programs and amenities.
• Connect recreational amenities and programs to match with the needs of the
diverse community members through active engagement, improved convenience
and memorable experiences.
• Establish a set of design standards for the parks, public spaces and wayfinding
measures that enhance the rich culture of the community to include incorporating
public art through varying methods such as sculptures, murals, monuments and
signage, and site furnishings.
Quality
• Make improvements, developments and redevelopments that improve the overall
quality of recreation with proper lighting, places to rest, shade opportunities,
access to restroom facilities, and added convenience measures for an improved
experience.
• Continue to develop diverse quality programs and recreation opportunities for all
ages, income levels and demographics that encourage community members to
participate and account for new and emerging trends in recreation.
• Implement a natural resource management plan for high quality natural resources
that improve habitats, water quality, and promote stewardship and learning
opportunities.
Sustainability
• Reduce redundancy by consolidating and improving developed parks to provide
more unique experiences, avoid over-duplication of amenities and align
development of parks in line with park classification.
• Allocate funding, build strong partnerships and pursue external funding
opportunities to help implement the recommendations of the system plan.
• Make improvements, developments and redevelopments that balance the
programmed uses with adequate infrastructure and flexible spaces to minimize
impacts and conflicts and account for ongoing modifications and trends.
• Utilize construction techniques and materials that will improve the life span and
minimize ongoing maintenance needs.
• Utilize maintenance and natural resource management methods that maximize
efficiency, improve resistance to pests and diseases, and are friendly to pollinators.
• Include a developed organizational structure of staff led by a dedicated
management position with the professional expertise to manage staff, recreation
programs, policy, and budget for ongoing management and implementation.
The following maps include:
• Community Park Priorities Map
• Neighborhood Park Priorities Map
• Classification & Development Modifications Map
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C. Individual Park Recommendations
The following section provides the general recommendations and guidance for
improvements and modifications to individual parks with a listing of amenities, ratings, and
high-level cost estimation. The recommendations and priorities are based on meeting the
goals of the plan at the time it was created and should be evaluated on a routine basis to
ensure they stay in line with the current needs of the community.
It is recommended that any significant changes to a park include a stakeholder-driven
master planning process with the to ensure the design aligns with community needs and
ideas in order to ensure a successful project. The city may choose to hire a professional
park planning and design specialist who understands proper circulation, optimal
orientations, accessibility guidelines, and infrastructure needs.
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Some parks only need amenities replaced back in current locations as needs dictate or smaller
scale improvements. Other parks have recommendations for broader scale improvements or
redevelopment considerations which may include a conceptual plan to help illustrate how a site
could be designed or how a feature may fit into a site, but they are not considered an approved
plan for implementation.
When making improvements, the city should strive to create continuity in the design. For example,
general site furniture for benches, table and trash receptacles should all have similar
characteristics or come from the same design family to create a site that doesn’t look like it was
piecemealed together. The following is just one example of site furnishings that illustrate
consistency in the design.
The overall park appearance should improve the overall sense of place with appropriate park
characteristics. All parks should continue to have a standard Prior Lake park identification sign
with supplementary signage as needed for additional wayfinding and interpretive purposes.
The following are the individual park recommendations.
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Boudins
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 1.25 Acres
Location: 14201 Rutgers Street NE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Basketball Court – Half
Ballfield
Parking (9 + 1 HC)
Description: Neighborhood park serving a small isolated neighborhood in the northwest
corner of Prior Lake
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Assessment
Assessment: 54.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained and most amenities range from fair to good
condition despite their older age. Basketball court and site furnishings, however, range
from fair to poor condition. Overall, this park is at or near the end of its life and will soon
need to be updated/replaced.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park with a nice wooded backdrop. Minor
modifications to the layout would improve the overall design. The ballfield is oriented
very poorly for any programmed activities but will suffice for informal play.
Accessibility: Shelter and playground have trail connections from the parking access
aisle but the ADA stall needs pavement markings. Court does not have a trail
connection. Playground has sand surfacing (non-compliant) with some rubber areas for
access.
Recommendations
While not on a high priority for complete redevelopment, the park should be maintained
to ensure a higher level of condition until it can be redeveloped due to the fact it is the
only park serving this immediate neighborhood.
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate. Evaluate overall layout prior to replacements to ensure optimal locations,
pedestrian circulation and orientation of amenities. Recommendations to layout for
consideration include:
• Move basketball half court or orientation of goal to minimize balls entering the
street or parking lot and connect with a trail
• Smaller picnic shelter (2-4 tables) with separate trail connection
• Upgrade site furnishings (benches, tables, receptacles) with consistent character
• Update playground equipment and add suitable resilient surfacing meeting ADA
• Connect amenities by trail but not directly through the playground container
• Minor field improvements or leave as open green space with just a backstop due
to improper field orientation and outfield safety fencing for programmed games
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Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include full trail/walk replacement
• Does not include new concrete playground container
Description Cost Range
Removals
$10,000
Paint ADA stall and access aisle
$500
New playground equipment $75,000
Accessible wood fiber resilient surfacing in playground $10,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Basketball court resurfacing and new goal $8,000
Trail connection to basketball court & shelter $8,000
SubTotal: $151,500
15% Contingency
$22,700
20% Design & Engineering
$30,300
Total:
$204,500
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Cardinal Ridge A (Markley Lake)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 42.5 Acres (total area)
Location: Fish Point Road
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Lawn Space
Parking (14 + 2 HC)
Description: Various park and natural resource areas within the housing area with the
developed neighborhood park portion along Markley Lake (Cardinal Ridge A) and an open
lawn space with trails (Cardinal Ridge B) to the northwest of the neighborhood park
portion, including trails.
B
A
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Assessment
Assessment: 50.0% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained and most amenities are in fair to good
condition. Some amenities such as the bike rack appear to be newer than the benches.
Playground is a little older and will soon need to be updated/replaced. Parking lot and
trail leading to playground is older, with newer trails leading down to the Markley Lake
trail which has seasonal flooding issues.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park with a nice wooded backdrop and the
trail along portions of Markley Lake is very popular. The developed park portion does not
make best use of the land available and modifications to the layout would improve the
recreational value of the park and allow for improved accessibility. The trail along the
lake is very appealing, though it is prone to some flooding.
Accessibility: Trails connect from the parking lot to the shelter and playground but they
do not meet accessibility design guidelines, therefore the park is considered mainly non-
compliant. The parking lot ADA stalls, aisle and ped ramp need minor modifications to
be compliant. The playground has sand (non-compliant) with some rubber areas for
access.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining the park as needs dictate until the
amenities need replacement. At time of replacement, develop an updated park site
master plan in line with community needs that makes better use of the space, improves
accessibility, and potentially includes additional amenities, such as a basketball court.
Work with the landowners and adjacent community to develop a more complete and
connected trail route around Markley Lake.
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Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Estimate assumes costs for full redevelopment
• Does not include added utilities (electrical, stormwater, etc.)
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$20,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Trails / walks in park (does not include lake trails)
$16,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Basketball court – half
$14,000
New picnic shelter – small, with electrical
$40,000
Parking lot repaving & striping
$30,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$338,000
15% Contingency
$50,700
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$67,600
Total:
$456,300
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Cardinal Ridge B (Lawn)
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 2 Acres
Location: 5705 Cardinal Ridge Trail SE
Existing Park Features
Trails
Lawn Space
Parking
Description: Open lawn space with trails going through the park and connecting to the
neighborhoods with on-street parking on Fish Point Road. Greenway system connects to
greater natural resource areas and Cardinal Ridge Park A.
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Assessment
Assessment: 36.1% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in poor condition and overall, looks neglected. The trails are in
very poor condition from the street down into the park and some sections are very steep.
There are some empty concrete pads where some previous amenities may have once
stood. The open lawn space is inviting and it has been noted that people still like using
the lawn space, even though it can flood.
Design & Character: Appealing natural setting with hills, wooded areas, prairie, and
ponding. The poor condition of the existing trails reduces the overall park appeal.
Accessibility: Trails are non-accessible.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining the park space as a natural resource
amenity and maintaining the lawn space for informal use. Some minimal improvements
and replacements will significantly improve the overall park experience. The trail is in
need of complete replacement but will unlikely be able to meet accessibility
requirements without significant realignment and design due to change in grade from the
street to the lawn space.
Simple benches on pads for overlooks in optimal locations for views of the park along
with consideration of educational / interpretive signage would be appropriate with at least
one bench pad placed in a more accessible location along the trail. Depending on the
stormwater design of the park, consider re-grading the lawn space to be more level and
elevated to improve it from flooding concerns for a more usable space.
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Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Earthwork is related to general improvements and not more extensive grading to
improve grades of trails entering the park
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$15,000
Trails
$24,000
Site furnishings (benches)
$10,000
Interpretive /wayfinding signs
$3,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$137,000
15% Contingency
$20,500
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$27,500
Total:
$185,000
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Carriage Hills Park
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 5 Acres
Location: 14585 Carriage Lane
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – Half
Volleyball Court
Ballfield
Parking
Description: Neighborhood park with a developed ballfield suitable for programming and
numerous recreational amenities.
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Assessment
Assessment: 53.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Most amenities are still in fair condition, but are older and will soon
need to be updated/replaced. Basketball court and site furnishings range from fair to
poor condition.
Design & Character: Functional design with many amenities, including a ballfield suitable
for programmed use and adjacent on-street parking on the north side of the park. The
loop trail system is a popular amenity. The park contains many ash and hackberry, so a
tree replacement plan will need to be incorporated. Minor modifications to the overall
layout would improve the design.
Accessibility: Shelter and playground has trail connections from the parking lot, though a
section of trail between the residential lots may exceed ADA slope. An accessible route
from the on-street parking on the north may be feasible if marked and connected with a
trail. Court is not connected by a trail. Playground has sand surfacing with some rubber
access.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate. At time of replacement, determine the actual need or desire to keep the sand
volleyball court and potentially phase out.
Improvements include:
• New shelter – mid size
• Replace the basketball court and connect with a trail
• Improve the ballfield to make it more suitable for programmed athletics,
potentially add outfield safety fencing or additional buffers by the playground and
shade for spectators and players
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Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assume the sand volleyball court is not desired
• Ballfield lighting is not included
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$20,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Trails (repaving and new connections)
$16,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Basketball court – half
$14,000
New picnic shelter – medium, with electrical
$75,000
Ballfield improvements (covered players benches, bleachers)
$30,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$338,000
15% Contingency
$50,700
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$67,600
Total:
$456,300
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 92
Crystal Lake (see also Hickory Shores)
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 4.6 Acres
Location: 4219 Village Lake Drive SE
Existing Park Features
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Fishing Pier
Description: Natural resource area with a trail located along the north side of Crystal Lake
that extends into Hickory Shores and trail connections to Rice Lake Park located to the
northwest. There is a small park development area containing a picnic shelter at the
northeastern corner of Crystal Lake along Village Lake Drive and Panama Avenue that
can only be accessed along trails and sidewalks from the adjacent neighborhood with no
nearby parking and steep slopes, leaving this developed area difficult to access.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 93
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 94
Assessment
Assessment: 30.6% Rating
Overall Condition: Many of the park trails have been seal coated recently, but will need
to be replaced soon and stabilization is needed in some areas where the edges are
breaking off.
Design & Character: The natural areas contain mature woods, wetlands and the lakes,
creating an appealing natural setting. Trails connect to Rice Lake Park to expand
recreational value. Trail maps would be beneficial to understand the overall park and trail
system and to locate access and connection points. The shelter on the northwest corner
is large but not a useful amenity due to the lack of proper access. There is no parking
anywhere nearby the shelter, restricting use to only those who can walk there.
Accessibility: The site lacks proper accessibility which will likely be very difficult to try
and accomplish due to the existing terrain and steep areas from the street down to the
lake edges.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate. Consider improved construction techniques for an improved trail pavement
condition. Remove the shelter area due to lack of accessibility and instead focus on
placing seating and overlook areas along the trail where feasible. Ongoing natural
resource management measures will be necessary and educational / interpretive signs
can be incorporated along the trails.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 95
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes trail replacement only within the Crystal Lake property – refer to
Hickory Shores for additional information
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$20,000
Trails (new reconstruction)
$16,000
Site furnishings (benches, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Landscaping and restoration
$20,000
SubTotal:
$135,000
15% Contingency
$20,250
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$27,000
Total:
$60,750
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 96
Deerfield Park (see also Wilderness Pond)
Classification: Neighborhood Park & Open Space
Size: 26.5 Acres
Location: 14100 Fish Point Road SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: Natural resource area with a small neighborhood park component containing
a loop trail system around a wetland complex. It is in close relation to Wilderness Pond
Park and both parks help serve a higher density residential neighborhood and single-
family homes with a blend of natural and developed spaces. The trails connect to The
Ponds community park / athletic complex.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 97
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 98
Assessment
Assessment: 39.6% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is maintained to a good to fair condition and most amenities are
in fair condition, though many amenities are older and will soon need to be replaced.
Trails are in good to fair condition and may just need sealcoating in the near future.
Design & Character: Small but appealing park with mature woods, wetlands and water
bodies that create a scenic and peaceful setting. The loop trail around the wetland is a
popular feature and provides connection to The Ponds. Updated amenities would
improve the overall recreational value for the surrounding neighborhoods. The trail
extending from the multi-family housing complex aligns with the park entrance trail but
the lack of a pedestrian ramp along the alignment makes this mid-block crossing difficult
and unsafe.
Accessibility: Playground has a trail connection, but the shelter does not. Playground
has sand surfacing with some rubber access. Only on-street parking available.
Recommendations
Keep this park at a higher level of condition due to the fact it is serving a high density
residential area with a considerable amount of children in the adjacent neighborhoods.
General recommendations include creating a master plan for Deerfield and Wilderness
Pond together in order to improve the recreational value to meet broader age groups
and to provide complementary features.
Suggestions include keeping this portion of the park minimally developed with a natural
resource based character by opening up views of the water, potentially adding a
boardwalk or deck overlook, and adding a few circuit exercise or play elements along the
trail.
The focus of the playground at Deerfield could be for the younger aged group with an
improved but smaller shelter and some grills with gathering space that many high
density housing residents lack. The more developed features could be incorporated into
Wilderness Pond.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 99
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Refer to Wilderness Ponds for additional information
• Does not include full trail repaving
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$30,000
Removals
$10,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$60,000
Trails (repaving and new connections)
$30,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Optional: boardwalk or deck overlook
$30,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$226,000
15% Contingency
$33,900
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$45,200
Total:
$305,100
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 100
Eagle Brook
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 3 Acres
Location: 5305 Snell Court SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court - half
Description: New neighborhood park redevelopment that is a prime example of a suitable
neighborhood development and is very popular not only with the surrounding
neighborhoods, but also has become more of a destination due the fact it has new and
more interesting amenities. The main park is along the end of a cul-de-sac and it also has
a half basketball court that is hidden back among the trees. There are lowlands and
woodlands in the park and some residents have expressed concerns with the amount of
mosquitos in this particular park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 101
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 102
Assessment
Assessment: 95.7% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is new, well-maintained and in very good condition.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park with a new style of shelter in
comparison to other Prior Lake parks with a wooded backdrop. The basketball court,
though new, is hidden and may attract undesirable use. Due to difficulty in finding the
basketball court, wayfinding signage would be helpful.
Accessibility: Overall accessibility is good to the playground and shelter. There are trail
connections to the court, though slopes of the trail would need to be verified.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate. Consider wayfinding signage, and natural resource and pest management. A
consideration for the playground would be to add in tiles in high displacement areas of
the wood fiber surfacing and also to consider color coating the basketball court with 4-
square and hopscotch.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 103
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes design, engineering and permits are not necessary
Description Cost Range
Playground tiles
$3,000
Color coating court
$4,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$5,000
SubTotal:
$12,000
15% Contingency
$
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$
Total:
$12,000
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 104
Enclave at Cleary
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 4 Acres
Location: 5384 Trailhead Lane SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – Half
Open Lawn with Backstop
Description: Newer neighborhood park redevelopment that is tucked back behind
residential homes along a large wetland complex. The park was developed in phases with
the playground built about four years ago and the court and shelter recently installed.
While the wetland provides a great setting, the newer park is more open and lacking in
shade until trees can become more mature.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 105
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 106
Assessment
Assessment: 82.6% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is newer, well-maintained and in very good condition. Trails
appear to be a little older and were recently seal coated but will soon need to be
replaced, along with some new pedestrian ramps along the street.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park with a new style of shelter in
comparison to other Prior Lake parks with a scenic wetland backdrop. There is an open
lawn space with a backstop and players benches more suitable for informal
neighborhood play, which is well suited for this size of park. One of the most appealing
features is a simple rock landscape area by the playground which attracts as much play
as the actual manufactured playground equipment but there may be invasive grasses
planted by it. The court is not color coated or striped. There may be some drainage
issues in portions of the park.
Accessibility: Overall accessibility regarding trail connection to the shelter and
playground is good, though the court does not have a trail connection and trail slopes
from the street down into the park likely exceed slope requirements. One ped ramp at
the street is broken and one ped ramp does not align with an opposite trail connection.
Recommendations
Recommendation Description & Estimate of Probable Costs:
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate. Consider color coating the court to include 4-square/hopscotch striping and
connect the court with a trail. Replace ornamental grasses with more suitable species.
Improve and/or replace trails and pedestrian ramps. There may also need to be some
drainage improvements in the park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 107
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Includes partial trail replacement
• Assumes design, engineering and permits are not necessary
Description Cost Range
Color coating
$4,000
Removals
$20,000
Trails (trail replacement & added connections)
$16,000
Pedestrian ramps (2)
$3,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
SubTotal:
$46,000
15% Contingency
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
Total:
$46,000
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 108
Fairway Heights
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 12.9 Acres
Location: 3600 Fox Tail Trail NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Trails
Description: Large wetland surrounded by wooded areas and containing a small tot lot on
the top of the hill adjacent to the street with split rail fencing and some scattered picnic
tables.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 109
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 110
Assessment
Assessment: 36.1% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair to poor condition, as the amenities are older.
Design & Character: Small playground development along the street at the top of a hill
by a wetland and natural resource area. While the natural areas are appealing, the
overall character of the developed portion is less appealing due to the degraded
condition, the close proximity to the street and the random tables scattered along the
edge of the street.
Accessibility: The playground has a trail connection but the trail leading down the hill is
very steep.
Recommendations
General recommendations include phasing out the playground development in line with
the park classification as a natural park and open space. The existing playground offers
little to the neighborhood, as there is a larger park up the street to meet these needs.
Consider seating overlooks or even a small bench shelter that takes advantage of the
expansive views of the lower wetland. Maintain and replace trails as needed and provide
ongoing natural resource management.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 111
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include costs for trail replacement
Description Cost Range
Removals
$10,000
Seating overlooks
$30,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
SubTotal:
$46,000
15% Contingency
$6,900
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$9,200
Total:
$62,100
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 112
Fish Point
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 9 Acres
Location: 15111 Fish Point Road SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court - half
Description: Originally developed in 1998. Mainly a natural resource area with hills, woods,
a creek and water treatment systems, with the developed portions containing a
playground, shelter and basketball half court. This park is part of a three-park system in
an isolated neighborhood so is also supported by Green Oaks and Indian Ridge parks and
is mainly surrounded by residential lots, so it is fairly hidden.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 113
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 114
Assessment
Assessment: 26.7% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair to mainly poor condition as many amenities are older
and in need of replacement.
Design & Character: Appealing natural features with woods, a pond and a creek, but the
developed amenities are lacking good design with items haphazardly placed. The main
park trail runs through the center of the playground, which is undesirable. There is an
area that was a joint project with MPCA and SLPLWD for an iron enhanced sand filter,
which is a nice educational feature.
Accessibility: Lacking proper accessibility due to very steep trails and no trail connection
to the court. Playground has sand surfacing with some rubber access.
Recommendations
Recommendations include changing the classification from neighborhood park to a
natural park with passive use recreation by removing the amenities that are outdated.
The remaining two parks are more suited for active recreation.
A new trail system should be incorporated with reduced slopes and consider some
natural trails along the creek to connect to Forest Circle. This site would be optimal for
educational features playing upon existing stormwater features in the park by the MPCA
and SPLWD and more green initiative or pollinator friendly areas. A smaller shelter may
be suitable along with more natural play elements to fit with the setting and any
improvements could focus on more sustainable features such as solar power.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 115
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes the park classification is changed to a natural park / open space
• Assumes partial
Description Cost Range
Removals
$20,000
Trails (new, paved & natural)
$50,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$20,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Optional: natural play features
$40,000
SubTotal:
$170,000
15% Contingency
$25,500
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$34,000
Total:
$229,500
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 116
Glynwater (see also Island View)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 11.9 Acres
Location: 3456 Glynwater Trail NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Open Lawn
Description: Originally established in 1998. This neighborhood park is tucked behind
residential homes and is conjoined with Island View Park along the north side of Arctic
Lake. A newly constructed community park on SMSC property is located to the west of
this park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 117
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 118
Assessment
Assessment: 35.2% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair to poor condition as many amenities are older.
Design & Character: The overall design of the park does not make good use of the
space available but the site is mainly quiet and peaceful with many birds along the trail
connecting the two parks together. The park is hidden and the trail entrance on the north
is confusing as the trail runs parallel to a private property drive, followed by the SMSC
community park trail, resulting in 3 parallel alignments. The close proximity to the lake is
a missed opportunity especially considering the SMSC park has a pier on the lake. The
open lawn space does not function well and is not inviting due to the placement of trees
in this area.
Accessibility: There are trail connections to the playground but not the shelter. The
playground has sand with some rubber.
Recommendations
Keep both parks at a higher level of condition due to the fact they are the only ones
serving this immediate neighborhood.
General recommendations include creating an overall master plan encompassing both
Glynwater and Island View parks together for a complementary and improved park
experience, making better use of the space available. Look for potential to work with the
SMSC to get a connected trail route around Arctic Lake.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 119
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes the park is redeveloped in conjunction with Island View
• Refer to Island View for additional information
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Basketball Half Court
$14,000
Trails (repaving and new)
$35,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Fencing
$50,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$15,000
SubTotal:
$372,000
15% Contingency
$55,800
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$74,400
Total:
$502,200
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 120
Grainwood Crossing (see also Heritage)
Classification: Special Use Park
Size: 2 Acres
Location: 4360 Quincy Street
Existing Park Features
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Fishing Pier
Parking
Description: Originally established in 1994. Grainwood Crossing is part of two parks on
opposite sides of Quincy Street at Eagle Creek Avenue, both very small in size. A fishing
pier provides pedestrian access to Lower Prior Lake and there are some references to
historic community elements. The site is along a very busy road (very noisy) but is very
visible and eye-catching, as this is one of the few spots where the public can actually see
the Prior lakes. One HC parking stall is provided and the side residential streets are
narrow, causing conflicts and frustration with users who want to access the site.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 121
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 122
Assessment
Assessment: 51.7% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair to poor condition overall, but the fishing pier is newer
and in very good condition. The shelter that recalls the historic aspect of the site needs
some maintenance and repair. Overall, many amenities are older and will soon need to
be updated/replaced.
Design & Character: The historic appeal of the shelter recalling the railroad is a little lost
without more information about the history of the site. The site’s location along the lake
makes the site both very attractive to want to use, but the design does not accommodate
users well. A variety of styles of tables scattered around detract from the overall
character and appearance.
Accessibility: There is one HC stall and trails provide access to the pier.
Recommendations
General recommendations include designing this park space in conjunction with
Heritage Park to improve the overall function of the two spaces.
There may be opportunity to acquire additional land as part of the park space to include
the causeway where the railroad was located that would be suitable for viewing the lake
with simple overlooks and a series of historical information can be added. Naturalize
more of the lake edge to capture and improve water runoff before entering the lake.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 123
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Includes costs for potential improvements on causeway but does not include land
acquisition costs
• Landscape includes budgetary figure for naturalizing and stabilizing some of the
shoreline in the park and causeway
• Refer to Heritage Park for additional information
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$50,000
Removals
$20,000
Trails (repaving and new)
$25,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$20,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$10,000
Shelter improvements (budget)
$10,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$165,000
15% Contingency
$24,750
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$33,000
Total:
$222,750
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 124
Green Oaks (see also Indian Ridge)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 2 Acres
Location: 15060 Green Oak Trail SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Ballfield
Parking
Description: This park development is also supported by Fish Point and Indian Ridge
Parks all in close proximity to one another within an isolated neighborhood along Lower
Prior Lake. This park in particular is more focused on active recreation with a ballfield that
can be programmed and six parking stalls are available.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 125
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 126
Assessment
Assessment: 49.4% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained and amenities range from fair to mainly poor
condition. Overall, many amenities are older and will soon need to be replaced. The
trails have a low spot that will need to be fixed.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park with some mature trees and a
developed ballfield that may be suitable for some programmed athletics, though
adequate parking is a concern. Basketball court is not striped.
Accessibility: Overall, most of the amenities are connected by trail, including the court,
and there is an ADA stall that is done correctly but will just need future No Parking text
added. Playground has sand surfacing and some rubber for access.
Recommendations
General recommendations include creating an overall master plan to create
complementary design features in comparison to Fish Point and Indian Ridge Parks and
with an improved overall layout. Specific recommendations for this park could potentially
focus on ballfield improvements and the court being replaced with a smaller hardcourt
with color coating for hopscotch and 4-square. If the ballfield is to be programmed,
improvements should focus on reducing impacts to the neighborhood by potentially
adding additional parking stalls.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 127
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Includes costs for complete redevelopment
• Parking lot improvements do not include stormwater costs
• Drinking fountain costs assumes existing water service in park
• Refer to Indian Ridge for additional information
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
Parking lot expansion
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container (smaller)
$75,000
Ballfield improvements
$30,000
Small hardcourt w/color coating
$10,000
Trails
$15,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$20,000
Drinking Fountain
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – medium w/electrical
$70,000
Landscaping and restoration
$15,000
SubTotal:
$383,000
15% Contingency
$57,450
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$76,600
Total:
$517,050
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 128
Haas Lake Park
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 11.2 Acres
Location: 3120 Wilds Ridge NW
Existing Park Features
Trails
Boardwalk
Description: Natural resource area with trails through the woods and a boardwalk across
a portion of the adjacent lake.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 129
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 130
Assessment
Assessment: 33.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Trails are in fair condition, though some areas need to be repaired
and some have edges that need improved support. The boardwalk is older and in need
of more extensive repairs or complete replacement.
Design & Character: Appealing experience through woods with a creek/waterway and
the ability to get users out on the lake.
Accessibility: Most areas are not accessible due to steep slopes on the trails.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate with improvements and development focused on the natural resources. Specific
recommendations for this park include adding information on the natural resources,
birds, and wildlife along with wayfinding signage. More extensive repairs and
replacements will soon be needed for the trails.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Costs for boardwalk assume more stable/engineered approach
Description Cost Range
General earthwork & erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
New trails & stabilization
$100,000
New boardwalk
$800,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$10,000
SubTotal:
$1,015,000
15% Contingency
$152,250
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$203,000
Total:
$1,370,500
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 131
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 132
Heritage Park (see also Grainwood Crossing)
Classification: Special Use Park
Size: 2 Acres
Location: 4360 Quincy Street
Existing Park Features
Trails
Description: Small pocket-park space with concrete walks and bench seating areas
adjacent to Eagle Creek Avenue, which is very noisy. This park space is adjacent to
Grainwood Park and both have some reference to the local history, but this is not evident.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 133
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 134
Assessment
Assessment: 45.8% Rating
Overall Condition: Good condition overall.
Design & Character: Nice design, though due to location and lack of pedestrian access,
likely does not get well utilized. Views of the lake from benches are lacking due to
overgrown vegetation along the lake edge.
Accessibility: Does not meet accessibility requirements.
Recommendations
General recommendations include redeveloping the site into a small parking lot to
provide access to the adjacent Grainwood Crossing site. Add historical interpretive signs
to tie the historical references into both sites. A retaining wall will likely be necessary
between the lot and residential lot which would also help screen the lot from the
residential areas.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 135
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes redevelopment as a parking lot to support Grainwood Crossing
• Parking lot improvements do not include stormwater costs
• Refer to Grainwood Crossing for additional information
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$10,000
Parking lot (7 stalls)
$30,000
Trails / walks
$8,000
Site furnishings (benches.)
$4,000
Retaining walls
$30,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
Landscaping and restoration
$20,000
SubTotal:
$183,000
15% Contingency
$27,450
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$36,600
Total:
$247,050
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 136
Hickory Shores (see also Crystal Lake)
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 27.3 Acres
Location: 4217 Village Lake Drive SE
Existing Park Features
Trails
Boardwalk
Fishing Pier
Description: Natural resource area with trails through the woods, a boardwalk across a
portion of the trail system, and a DNR fishing pier.
Refer to Crystal Lake for additional information and recommendations
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 137
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 138
Assessment
Assessment: 30.6% Rating
Overall Condition: Many of the park trails have been seal coated recently, but will need
to be replaced soon and stabilization is needed in some areas where the edges are
breaking off. The pier is older and in fair condition.
Design & Character: The natural areas contain mature woods, wetlands and the lakes,
creating an appealing natural setting but random signs and postings for “Private
Property” and “No Trespassing” detract from the experience. The fishing pier is older but
a nice amenity. Trails connect to Rice Lake Park to expand recreational value.
Accessibility: The site lacks proper accessibility which will likely be very difficult to try
and accomplish due to the existing terrain and steep areas from the street down to the
lake edges.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate. Consider improved construction techniques for an improved trail pavement
condition. Focus on placing seating and overlook areas along the trail where feasible.
Ongoing natural resource management measures will be necessary and educational /
interpretive signs can be incorporated along the trails. Trail maps would be beneficial to
understand the overall park and trail system and to locate access and connection points.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 139
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes trail replacement only within the Hickory Shores property with budget
for some soils corrections
• Refer to Crystal Lake for additional information
Description Cost Range
Trails (replace)
$250,000
Site furnishings (benches, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
Fishing Pier (new)
$25,000
Boardwalk replacement
$250,000
SubTotal:
$541,000
15% Contingency
$81,150
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$108,200
Total:
$730,350
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 140
Horkey at Shepherds Path
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 15.8 Acres
Location: 13810 Shepherd’s Path
Existing Park Features
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Boardwalk
Description: Natural resource area with trails adjacent to the YMCA and church so it feels
more like a private space rather than a public park. This location has been going through
new development with apartments being built and is generally lacking adequate parks in
this area of the city.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 141
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 142
Assessment
Assessment: 39.6% Rating
Overall Condition: Most trails are in good to fair condition. There is a mixture of some
newer benches, older benches, and an older pavilion and boardwalk. The site blends
into adjacent church and the YMCA properties with a very old playground item.
Design & Character: Appealing natural spaces, though due to location it feels very
private and users may not know where to park to access the park. The park also needs
better delineation from the church and YMCA. The park has a variety of bench types /
styles.
Accessibility: Does not meet accessibility requirements.
Recommendations
Whereas this general location of the city is in need of a developed park, this park is not
well suited to meet this need. General recommendations include maintaining and
replacing items at needs dictate with a focus on natural resource management, pollinator
friendly spaces and educational items. Park signs should be replaced and the pavilion
and boardwalk will need some maintenance or replacement soon.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 143
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes minimal redevelopment and does not include replacement of the
existing pavilion shelter
• Assumes trails do not need replacement at this time so ongoing maintenance
efforts are not included
• Assumes boardwalk / pedestrian bridge is an engineered approach
Description Cost Range
Site furnishings (benches, receptacles, etc.)
$6,000
New overlook deck
$30,000
Pedestrian bridge / boardwalk
$400,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$10,000
SubTotal:
$446,000
15% Contingency
$66,900
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$89,200
Total:
$602,100
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 144
Howard Lake
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 5.65 Acres
Location: 16358 Stemmer Ridge Road NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Ballfield
Open Lawn
Parking
Description: Neighborhood park that is newer in comparison to other parks and is meeting
the active recreational needs of the community. This is a larger park that feels incomplete,
but has a ballfield suitable for some athletic programming. This park is in close proximity
to Spring Lake Regional Park, providing more passive recreation.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 145
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 146
Assessment
Assessment: 65.2% Rating
Overall Condition: Good condition overall.
Design & Character: Functional design that feels very open and incomplete. The court is
not striped, a trail dead-ends with random tables sitting on it, and overall the park is in
need of shade within the park development area. Wooded backdrop is very appealing.
Accessibility: Trail from parking lot to playground but the access aisle is located on the
wrong side of the ADA stall and is undersized. The playground has wood fiber surfacing.
The court is not connected by trail.
Recommendations
General recommendations include making some overall layout adjustments to the site
for better use of space and circulation, and to make the park more appealing in terms of
use as well as aesthetics with additional amenities. As items become in need of
replacement, redevelop them in more appropriate locations for better relation. Additional
recommendations include adding a full basketball court, group picnic shelter, internal
trails (connect to maintenance trail for a loop), landscape enhancements, and ballfield
enhancements.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 147
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include replacement or improvement costs of existing playground or
parking lot
• Drinking fountain costs assumes existing water service in park
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$50,000
Ballfield improvements (players fencing, concrete pads)
$30,000
Full basketball court w/color coating
$30,000
Trails (added)
$30,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$20,000
Drinking Fountain
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – medium w/electrical
$70,000
Landscaping and restoration
$15,000
SubTotal:
$258,000
15% Contingency
$38,700
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$51,600
Total:
$522,450
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 148
Indian Ridge (see also Green Oaks)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 1.5 Acres
Location: 15081 Fairlawn Shores Trail SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Open Lawn
Parking
Description: This park development is also supported by Fish Point and Green Oaks Parks
all in close proximity to one another within an isolated neighborhood along Lower Prior
Lake. Indian Ridge is a very linear park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 149
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 150
Assessment
Assessment: 33.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Trails are in fair to poor condition with many damaged by tree roots.
The playground and amenities are older and in need of replacement. The court is in fair
condition but is not striped.
Design & Character: The park has a functional design but the mature trees and wooded
backdrop are very appealing. The customized basketball goal is a nice addition.
Accessibility: Playground is connected to the trails to the parking lot, but the court is not
connected by trail. HC parking stall does not meet current requirements. Playground has
sand surfacing with some rubber access.
Recommendations
General recommendations include creating a master plan of Indian Ridge in conjunction
with Green Oaks park for complementary features. Specific recommendations for this
park include a focus on recreational features for older elementary to teen and adults
such as unique play elements with a higher challenge level, consider a full sized
basketball court or at the minimum, stripe the half court. Keep an open lawn space and
add in some seating/gathering spaces.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 151
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Refer to Green Oaks Park for additional information
• Does not include replacement or improvement costs of the existing parking lot
• Drinking fountain costs assumes existing water service in park
Description Cost Range
Full basketball court w/color coating
$30,000
Trails & walks (new)
$20,000
Site furnishings (benches, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Drinking Fountain
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Challenge equipment
$150,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$233,000
15% Contingency
$34,950
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$46,600
Total:
$314,550
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 152
Island View (see also Glynwater Park)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 4 Acres
Location: 3425 Crystal Circle
Existing Park Features
Playground
Trails
Description: This park development is also supported by Glynwater Park to serve an
isolated neighborhood and is fairly hidden behind residential areas north of Arctic Lake. A
newly constructed community park on SMSC property is located to the west of this park.
The park property does have an extension to the lake itself but no current pedestrian
access.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 153
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 154
Assessment
Assessment: 36.1% Rating
Overall Condition: Well maintained park, but older amenities that will soon need to be
updated/replaced.
Design & Character: The park design is functional and the tables and benches stacked
on the trail detract from the park experience. The natural resources and wooded
backdrop areas are very appealing. The close proximity to the lake is a missed
opportunity especially considering the SMSC park has a pier on the lake.
Accessibility: Most areas not accessible due to steep slopes.
Recommendations
General recommendations include creating a master plan of Island View with Glynwater
for complementary features with higher recreational value. Specific recommendations for
this park include removal of the playground and replace with open lawn, some exercise
stations or more unique play elements, new trails, a fishing pier on Arctic Lake and
coordinate with the SMSC to identify if there are opportunities to create a connected trail
system around Arctic Lake.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 155
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes the park is redeveloped in conjunction with Glynwater
• Assumes boardwalk is an engineered approach
• Refer to Glynwater for additional cost implications
Description Cost Range
Trails
$20,000
Fishing Pier
$25,000
Boardwalk
$200,000
Site furnishings (benches, bird houses, etc.)
$5,000
Unique circuit elements / stations
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$276,000
15% Contingency
$41,400
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$55,200
Total:
$372,600
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 156
Jeffers Pond
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 13.76 Acres
Location: 15122 Jeffers Path NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Boardwalks – Shore Crest
Basketball Court – half
Ballfield – Pleasure Rink
Parking
Description: Established in 2002. Part of a large natural resource complex, this park
provides both active and passive recreational opportunities. It is also used by the
elementary school for their educational programming. Trails and boardwalks create
multiple loops with connection to Jeffers Pond Elementary. The ballfield is suited for some
programmed athletic functions.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 157
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 158
Assessment
Assessment: 54.3%
Overall Condition: Overall, the park is still in good to fair condition, though the
boardwalks in particular are in need of replacement or more extensive repairs (especially
the Wilds Ridge area), the basketball court is in poor condition, and many amenities are
nearing the end of their lifespan.
Design & Character: The park is very inviting in both the developed and natural areas. It
contains ponds, wetlands and woods. Some slight modifications to the overall layout of
the developed park would improve the experience.
Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, but the court is not connected by trail and some
trails are very steep.
Recommendations
Noted as a key park for serving the neighborhood.
General recommendations include development of a master plan for reorganization of
the developed spaces to make better use of the space provided with better connectivity
for a high quality park. Consider a full basketball court or a half court with additional
bankshot play. Improve the ballfield with updated amenities and fencing to be more
suited for programmed play. Include a medium sized shelter suitable for rentals and
consider some permanent restrooms as part of the design. Ensure trail connections to all
amenities and to the trail on the north side along Jeffers Parkway NW.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 159
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes the developed portion of the park is replaced with a new layout
• Does not include full trail replacement for the entire system around Jeffers Pond
Preserve, just the main developed portion (remainder of trail and boardwalks to
fall under trail replacement plan)
• Drinking fountain costs assume existing water service in park
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$100,000
Removals
$40,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Natural play features or trail circuit elements
$50,000
Ballfield improvements (budget)
$100,000
Basketball full
$30,000
Trails (new)
$35,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$30,000
Drinking fountain
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$20,000
New picnic shelter – medium with restrooms
$200,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$745,000
15% Contingency
$111,750
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$149,000
Total:
$1,005,750
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 160
Jeffers South / Jeffers Pond Preserve
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: -- Acres
Location: Jeffers Pass NW
Existing Park Features
Trails
Boardwalks – Shore Crest
Description: Established in 2002. Part of a large natural resource complex, this natural
open space as part of Jeffers Park provides passive recreational opportunities in a
natural resource environment. Refer also to Jeffers Pond for additional property and trail
systems. Trails and boardwalks create multiple loops with connection to Jeffers Pond
Elementary and the school utilizes the natural spaces for their educational programming.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 161
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 162
Assessment
Assessment: refer to Jeffers Pond
Overall Condition: Overall, the trails are in good to fair condition, though the boardwalks
in particular are in need of replacement or more extensive repairs (especially the Wilds
Ridge area).
Design & Character: The natural areas contain ponds, wetlands and woods and is very
inviting. There is a small trailhead parking lot along Fountain Hills Road with a dead-end
trail along the lake.
Accessibility: Accessibility of the trails and boardwalks vary with some locations having
adequate access, slopes and conditions, while other locations have steep trail sections
and site conditions that act as a barrier to proper use.
Recommendations
General recommendations include ongoing maintenance and replacement of trails and
boardwalks. Add in more seating and viewing opportunities along the trail with
interpretive signage. Work with the school district to allow for areas suitable for group
gatherings and educational programming with the natural resources. Ongoing natural
resource management will be necessary.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 163
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Costs for boardwalk assume more stable/engineered approach
• Trail replacement costs are not included at this time
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$50,000
Removals
$30,000
New boardwalks
$1,000,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$10,000
Seating and gathering spaces (budget)
$30,000
SubTotal:
$1,120,000
15% Contingency
$168,000
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$224,000
Total:
$1,512,000
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 164
Knob Hill
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 13.5 Acres
Location: 4700 Carriage Hills Parkway
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Open Lawn
Description: This neighborhood park sits on a hill along Carriage Hills Parkway and also
contains wetlands and wooded areas. The main park portion is visible from Carriage Hills
Parkway but lacks vehicular access on this side.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 165
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 166
Assessment
Assessment: 50.0%
Overall Condition: Most of the park is in fair to poor condition and many amenities will
soon need to be updated/replaced.
Design & Character: The park is very visible from Carriage Hills Parkway but you can’t
park along this road and the existing partial road apron makes this confusing for users,
forcing vehicles to park along neighborhood streets instead. The basketball goal is along
the trail connection which can cause conflict with users and it’s not striped. The natural
setting for the park is very aesthetic with most of the park surrounded by mature trees
and native vegetation.
Accessibility: The walks to the playground do not meet accessibility requirements and
most of the trails are steep. The playground has sand surfacing with some rubber
access points.
Recommendations
General recommendations include replacing items as needs dictate and consider adding
in a small parking lot off of Carriage Hills Parkway with a trail connection that aligns with
the existing ped crossing at Carriage Hills Pkwy to the park elements in a more
accessible route. Slight modifications to the location of the playground, shelter and
basketball court should be considered at time of replacement to make the park design
and function better. Raise some park trails up with culverts to avoid flooding issues.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 167
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Includes costs for complete redevelopment
• Parking lot improvements do not include stormwater costs
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$20,000
Parking lot
$45,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$75,000
Basketball half court
$14,000
Trails & culverts
$40,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$15,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$20,000
SubTotal:
$347,000
15% Contingency
$52,050
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$69,400
Total:
$468,450
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 168
Lakefront
Classification: Community Park
Size: 141.18 Acres
Location: 5000 Kop Parkway
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Amphitheater / Stage
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Amenities Court
Volleyball Court
Skate Park
Multi-Purpose Field
Ballfield
Tennis Court
Hockey Rink / Pleasure Skating
Parking
Description: This expansive community park is a prime destination for the local and even
regional community due to the variety of amenities and civic events that take place here.
It is located in close relation to the downtown Prior Lake and is adjacent to the Kopp
Farm community gardens and contains Watzl’s Beach. There are numerous active and
passive recreational opportunities.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 169
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 170
Assessment
Assessment: 48.1%
Overall Condition: The park is well maintained, but the age of the amenities combined
with the high ongoing use of the amenities has resulted in many necessary
improvements and full replacements now needed.
Design & Character: This park is the gem of the community with a strong connection to
the heart of the downtown area and a very appealing entrance sequence into the park.
The park has numerous natural resources that create a highly aesthetic park setting and
a wide variety of recreational amenities meeting the needs of numerous users. Overall,
there is a lack of adequate parking when larger activities are taking place in the park and
Watzl’s Beach feels very disconnected and hidden.
Accessibility: Almost all amenities are connected by trails, but some trails are steep, the
amphitheater area needs accessible seating, and various general improvements are
needed to improve overall accessibility in terms of compliance. Watzl’s Beach lacks
proper access and the playground has non-compliant sand surfacing with some rubber
access areas.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 171
Recommendations
General recommendations include replacement of virtually all trails, drives, parking lots
and developed amenities, reorganization of some of the amenities, and the
consideration of new recreational elements to better meet the needs of the community.
A community involved master plan process should be undertaken to develop an updated
site plan to accommodate the new and improved amenities. Some specific
considerations include:
• New playground – inclusive design
• Memorial climbing boulder – either
by the existing playground moved
closer to the base of the large hill
by the hockey rinks if a skate park
is relocated to the top of the hill
• Improved skate park either in its
current location or moved to the
tennis court location. Alternatively,
this may move to a different site
entirely
• Improved tennis courts in current
location or the location could swap
with the existing skate park
• If pickleball courts are not
developed at Spring Lake Park,
keep an overlay on the tennis
courts at this site
• Phase out the ballfield to remain as
turf lawn space with drainage improvements
• Consider an additional parking lot for improved access to Watzl’s Beach though
this would likely require significant retaining walls.
• New separate smaller warming house room, also used for programming
• Separate permanent restrooms suitable for daily park users not in conflict with
other park uses
• Improvements to existing buildings and rental spaces to include wifi, technology,
improved acoustics, code compliance & general improvements
• Consideration of refrigerated ice rink with covered seating and potentially a
pleasure skating loop
• Ensure drive and parking lot designs and construction accommodate heavy
trucks
• Potential splash pad (though Sand Point Beach is a better location)
• Look at potential to get 2 improved volleyball courts together
It should be noted that some previous improvements and developments were made with
grant funding and as such, have specific conditions that the City of Prior Lake is
obligated to adhere to.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 172
Estimate of Probable Costs
Due to numerous unknowns, an estimate should be prepared in conjunction with a
master plan process. The following are general estimates for just some of the listed
recommendations in order to understand some basic budgetary figures.
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include a new parking lot with retaining wall for Watzl’s Beach or any
Watzl’s Beach improvements
• Does not include numerous improvements to existing trails, buildings or other
items not specifically listed
• Does not include removals, restoration, earthwork, erosion control, etc.
Description Cost Range
Inclusive playground
$500,000
Skate park
$500,000
Double tennis court
$100,000
Basketball and hard court replacement
$60,000
Parking lot and drive replacement
$1,000,000
Warming house / restroom building
$500,000
New group picnic shelters w/restrooms (2)
$1,000,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$100,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$50,000
SubTotal:
$3,810,000
15% Contingency
$571,500
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$762,000
Total:
$4,382,262
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 173
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 174
Meadow View
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 2.1 Acres
Location: 2416 Stonecrest Path NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: This small neighborhood park contains mostly natural resource areas
adjoining SMSC property and contains a small tot lot and nice pavilion by the street. It
serves a small residential area.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 175
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 176
Assessment
Assessment: 45.8%
Overall Condition: The park is well maintained and in good condition. The playground is
older and will soon need to be updated/replaced.
Design & Character: This park is very inviting from the street but the overall design of the
playground container could be more suitable with the pavilion structure. The natural
resources are very aesthetic.
Accessibility: Accessibility is poor with better access needed for the playground and
shelter.
Recommendations
General recommendations include replacement of amenities as needed. Consider more
interesting playground container and equipment design. Coordinate with the SMSC for
trail continuation north. Simple benches and overlooks would enhance the trail
experience if a continuous trail is feasible. Continue maintenance of pavilion.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Additional trails and replacement trails not included
Description Cost Range
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$75,000
Site furnishings (benches, overlooks etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Optional: New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
SubTotal:
$128,000
15% Contingency
$19,200
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$25,600
Total:
$172,800
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 177
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 178
Memorial
Classification: Community Park
Size: 11.5 Acres
Location: 5181 160th Street
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – full
Horseshoes
Ballfield (Town Ballfield)
Parking
Description: This community park contains the Veterans Ballfield also utilized by the High
School team. The site has neighborhood park development and is located adjacent to a
school with a playground, track and turf field with additional schools located nearby.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 179
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 180
Assessment
Assessment: 41.7%
Overall Condition: The park has a mixture of old and new elements, with some in good
condition and others in poor condition.
Design & Character: Though the oak front lawn of the park area is attractive, overall the
park lacks proper design and consistent character. The park components are very
scattered, the old shelter structure by the main parking area is unattractive, and the mix
of old and new amenities create an underwhelming experience. The parking is
inadequate for the ballfield uses. The ballfield has an odd-shaped outfield lacking
consistent curvatures and alignments.
Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, with some improvements needed to be
compliant.
Recommendations
General recommendations include creating a master plan that consolidates the
neighborhood park component separate from the ballfield uses, potentially on the
western side of the park. The main parking area should be redesigned for better capacity
and moved north for better separation from the ballfield. Safety netting should be added
in select areas. Once areas are in need of replacement, move them in appropriate
locations. Typical amenities for a neighborhood park to be included but not overdone
given the small amount of space available. Consider the redevelopment of lawn games
such as new horseshoes or bocce ball with adjacent gathering spaces and a small
shelter.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 181
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include costs for any ballfield related improvements
• Parking lot estimate does not include stormwater costs
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$40,000
Parking lot reconfiguration
$200,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Basketball full court
$30,000
Trails and walks (new)
$40,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Lawn game courts
$20,000
New picnic shelter – medium
$70,000
Landscaping and restoration
$25,000
SubTotal:
$613,000
15% Contingency
$91,950
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$122,600
Total:
$827,550
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 182
North Shore Oaks
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 5 Acres
Location: 14300 Fisher Avenue NE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Trails
Description: This site is primarily wetlands with a maintenance trail and a small, outdated
playground by the street.
Assessment
Assessment: 8.3%
Overall Condition: The park is completely outdated and a liability issue.
Design & Character: The park has natural resources in need of management and
improvements. The playground offers little to no value.
Accessibility: Not accessible.
Recommendations
General recommendations include removal of existing playground amenities and
naturalize to a natural park with open space, with ongoing natural resource management
efforts.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 183
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 184
Northwood
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 1 Acre
Location: 16731 Northwood Road NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: This small neighborhood park site originally established in 1911 in an older
neighborhood is located along two street intersections and is primarily accessed by
walking. Approximately half of the park is lowland with native plantings, potentially for
stormwater.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 185
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 186
Assessment
Assessment: 45.8% Rating
Overall Condition: The park has is well maintained and in fair condition, though many
amenities are older. The picnic shelter has electricity but is very large in comparison to
the park space available.
Design & Character: Very basic design and the park is difficult to access by vehicle so
main usage is limited to pedestrians. It is close to Spring Lake Regional Park and Upper
Prior Lake with a street crossing north of the park for snowmobile to access the lake.
Accessibility: Connections from sidewalk to play container and the shelter. Playground
has non-compliant sand but some rubber access areas.
Recommendations
General recommendations include potentially connecting a trail from the park to Upper
Prior with a fishing dock at the snowmobile access point and replacing amenities as
necessary. Downsize the shelter and when updating the playground, install wood fiber
surfacing.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Costs for fishing pier is not included
Description Cost Range
New playground equipment & surfacing
$50,000
Shelter – small
$40,000
SubTotal:
$90,000
15% Contingency
$13,500
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$18,000
Total:
$121,500
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 187
Northwood Meadows
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 3.5 Acres
Location: 2995 Hawk Ridge Road NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Ballfield
Open Lawn / Multi-purpose field
Parking
Description: This neighborhood park site was established in 2012. It is surrounded by
homes and part of a larger open space network with trail connection to Spring Lake
Regional Park, though not the most ideal connection point due to the disjointed trail gap
along Hawk Ridge Road NW on the west side of the park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 188
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 189
Assessment
Assessment: 75.9% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is newer and well-maintained and most amenities are in good to
very good condition but the basketball court coating has been vandalized.
Design & Character: Functional design that could be improved with a better layout that
would make better use of the space available. Parts of the site have a nice wooded
backdrop and some rain gardens in other areas. The ballfield is oriented poorly in terms
of play and is a safety hazard for those using the playground. The playground has a
sand area which is a nice feature.
Accessibility: There are a couple of designated parking stalls along the street with a trail
connection and pedestrian ramp. The shelter and playground have trail connections but
the basketball court does not. Playground has wood fiber surfacing and a small sand
play area.
Recommendations
In the short term, connect the court with a trail. When this park is up for replacement,
consider an improved layout for the park that would make better use of the space,
especially the open green space. Consider removal of the agg-lime infield and just allow
for larger open turf areas with a simple backstop in a better location and downsize the
picnic shelter.
Estimate of Probable Costs
Trail connection approximately $8,000. Remainder of cost estimates to be prepared at
time of replacement.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 190
Oakland Beach
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 1.5 Acres
Location: 6675 Rustic Road SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Open Lawn
Description: This small neighborhood park site was originally established in 1926. It is
surrounded by homes with a trail connection to Rustic Road and is located in an isolated
neighborhood. The “Beach” in the name is deceiving.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 191
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 192
Assessment
Assessment: 42.0% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is mainly in fair condition with some amenities and pavements
falling into the poor category. Most of the park development is older and in need of
replacement in the near future.
Design & Character: Functional design and a little over-developed for the small amount
of park space available. It has considerable shade with mature trees. It once had a
skating area which is now open green space and the sand in the playground, though
non-compliant for access, is well received by some of the neighbors who keep sand toys
in the playground for use. Shelter has electrical service.
Accessibility: There are trail connections to the playground and court but not the shelter.
The playground has sand surfacing with some rubber connections.
Recommendations
Consider an updated layout to the park at time of replacement. This park is a key park
for the neighborhood to meet recreational needs. Consider downsizing the shelter and
have at least a small sand play area. Include hopscotch and 4-square on a half court.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 193
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Estimate assumes costs for full redevelopment
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$50,000
Removals
$10,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$75,000
Trails / walk
$16,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, bike racks, etc.)
$8,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Basketball court – half
$14,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$20,000
SubTotal:
$236,000
15% Contingency
$35,400
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$47,200
Total:
$318,600
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 194
Pike Lake
Classification: Community Park / Natural Park
Size: 34.15 Acres
Location: 4262 140th Street NE
Existing Park Features
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Parking
Description: Minimally developed community park with a focus on passive recreation,
water recreation and natural resource protection. Highly scenic with a stream running
through the park and connecting to Pike Lake. A house and outbuilding remains on the
north side of the property.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 195
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 196
Assessment
Assessment: 58.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is mainly in a natural condition. There is a new small shelter
donated by the Rotary Club that fits will with the setting.
Design & Character: The site has an abundance of natural systems that includes prairie,
a stream, woods and the lake.
Accessibility: There is a small parking area and a paved trail is linked to the Rotary
shelter.
Recommendations
Currently the adjacent lands are being platted for residential development and the SMSC
now owns the lands to the north and east that were previously the YMCA Kici Yapi
Camp so working with the developers and the SMSC for optimal trail conditions and a
natural transition from the developed homes to the natural parks will be a key
consideration in the short term.
The city should undertake a master plan process and work with the SMSC to identify trail
connections to their property and potential partnership opportunities for programming
that would benefit both.
Some potential considerations include:
• Park Nature Center Facility (utilize existing house)
• Unique Nature Play Features
• Trails (paved and natural)
• Seating and Overlooks
• Fishing Piers
• Non-motorized Watercraft Accommodations
• Educational / Interpretive information
• Cross-country Skiing or Snowshoe Trails
• Natural Resource Management (creek, woods, prairie, lake shore)
• Parking (accoommodate school buses)
Estimate of Probable Costs
Cost estimates to be prepared with master plan, which could likely range from $800,000
to $2 million depending on the design and nature center facility.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 197
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 198
Raspberry Ridge
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 16 Acres
Location: 4010 Lords Street NE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Volleyball Court
Ballfield
Parking
Description: Established in 1981. Large neighborhood park with approximately 1/3 of the
park developed with recreational amenities, the remainder are natural resources with
woods, wetlands and a rain garden or basin. Key neighborhood park for surrounding
development.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 199
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 200
Assessment
Assessment: 50.0% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well maintained and mainly in good to fair condition with the
exception of the ballfield which is more of a poor condition. There is a swale and low
area in the trail that is causing maintenance issues.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park with over half of the park in a natural
state with woods and a creek. The park development is primarily functional in design and
the ballfield has enough room to be programmed but has a poor orientation for play.
There is a tree in the playground container that may be in conflict with the safety fall
zone of the equipment.
Accessibility: Trails connect from the parking lot to the playground but some trails do not
meet accessibility standards and they do not connect to the court or shelter. Parking lot
access aisles need updating to meet ADA. The playground has non-compliant sand but
some rubber access points.
Recommendations
General recommendations include slight adjustments in overall layout to improve the
circulation and make better use of space. This is a key neighborhood park that should be
kept to higher quality standards but is currently still in fair condition.
Some recommendations include:
• Connect all amenities to the trail system, raise trail and add culverts where
needed
• Consider new ballfield orientation and upgrade to accommodate games
• Consider removal of the sand volleyball court
• More trees / landscaping around ballfield
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 201
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Estimate assumes costs for full redevelopment
• Assumes volleyball court is removed
• Does not include full trail replacement
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Ballfield Improvements w/irrigation
$60,000
Trails
$8,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, bike racks, etc.)
$15,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Basketball court – half
$14,000
New picnic shelter – medium, with electrical
$70,000
Parking lot striping
$1,500
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$406,500
15% Contingency
$60,975
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$81,300
Total:
$548,775
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 202
Raspberry Woods
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 22 Acres
Location: 4124 Hidden Pond Trail NE
Existing Park Features
Trails
Boardwalk
Description: Established in 1994. This natural park and open space area contains 22 acres
of varying types of natural resources, but are primarily woods with an open lawn space on
the south-eastern edge that gets confused with private lots. Paved trails run through the
property with some very steep sections.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 203
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 204
Assessment
Assessment: 50.0% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is primarily in a natural state that will need ongoing natural
resource management. Some trails are in poor condition and in need of stabilization.
Design & Character: Appealing natural setting but there is a lack of park boundaries
which causes some confusion in terms of access and park use areas.
Accessibility: Trails do not meet accessibility requirements.
Recommendations
General recommendations include improvements to trails to include stabilization where
needed and a good wayfinding signage system to guide users and entrance points.
Continue to account for some recreational programs at this site.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Estimate assumes partial trail replacement in existing alignment
Description Cost Range
Trails
$30,000
Site furnishings (benches, overlooks, etc.)
$15,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$20,000
SubTotal:
$65,000
15% Contingency
$9,700
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$13,000
Total:
$87,700
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 205
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 206
Raymond
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 2.6 Acres
Location: 2350 Raymond Avenue
Existing Park Features
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Parking (3 + 1 HC)
Description: Park area (once in
Jordan’s system) that is located
along the shores of Spring Lake
with a pier, picnic shelter and
small parking lot. Recent park
improvements were completed
with the SLPLWD for native
restoration.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 207
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 208
Assessment
Assessment: 45.8% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair condition, though at the time of assessments had just
completed the restoration project so was still not fully established.
Design & Character: Prime location along the lake with a large wetland complex to the
south. Overall the development seems to be forced into a small area of the park with a
lot of the remaining land feeling underutilized though this is now part of a restoration
project that may have some conditions to future use. The parking lot is undersized for
any group use at this site. There were a lot of “NO” signs at the entrance of the park
which is detracts from the overall experience and makes users not feel welcome at the
park. There were some interesting chairs on site, likely from residents.
Accessibility: Parking lot does not meet ADA, there is a trail connection to the shelter but
not the pier.
Recommendations
As one of the few public locations to access the lake, this site should be planned and
improved to accommodate users for a better experience. Depending on the limitations of
future development, some general recommendations include:
• Trail connections to amenities and pier locations
• Non-motorized watercraft launch and storage
• New shelter with electrical and potentially a fire pit or outdoor fireplace
• Improved / expanded parking to accommodate a minimum of 8 stalls
• Benches for seating and viewing the lake
• Informal fishing platforms (boulders)
• Interpretive trail (along existing loop trail)
• Consider pedestrian bridge and trail connection across channel to the east
• Naturalize shoreline
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 209
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include bringing in utilities (electrical, water, etc.)
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$50,000
Removals
$10,000
Optional: Pedestrian Bridge
$200,000
Trails / walks
$5,000
Site furnishings (benches, storage racks, etc.)
$15,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$10,000
Boarding dock
$20,000
New picnic shelter – medium
$70,000
Parking lot expansion
$10,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$400,000
15% Contingency
$60,000
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$80,000
Total:
$540,000
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 210
Rice Lake
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 16.8 Acres
Location: 2995 Hawk Ridge Road NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Trails
Description: Neighborhood park development within a greater natural resource setting that
has a developed play area off of the Skinner St. cul-de-sac as well as some circuit play
elements along the loop trail system that spread out use and make this park more unique.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 211
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 212
Assessment
Assessment: 83.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained and most amenities are new so they are in
good condition. Trails have recently been seal-coated.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park design. The playground blends with
the natural surroundings and the circuit elements are appealing. The trails allow this park
to help serve the neighborhoods around Crystal and Rice Lake that are currently lacking
in developed recreational spaces. The “treehouse” piece is very interesting, but the
location make it feel disjointed and part of the residential lot rather than part of the park.
Accessibility: Trail system around the wetland complex provide access to many of the
amenities, though some trail segments likely exceed slopes for ADA requirements and
some pods along the trail need improved connections. The treehouse does not have a
trail connection.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining the park as needs dictate with a focus on
mosquitoes and noxious plant control. Several improvements could be added to improve
the experience, though this is not high on the priority list.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 213
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Estimate assumes costs for minor improvements
Description Cost Range
Swingset
$6,000
Trails / walks (added)
$6,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$10,000
Picnic shelter – small
$40,000
SubTotal:
$62,000
15% Contingency
$9,300
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$12,400
Total:
$83,700
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 214
Rotary Gateway
Classification: Special Use Park
Size: 0.63 Acres
Location: 4666 Dakota Street SE
Existing Park Features
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: Special use mini-park with specialty gardens that act as a gateway connection
between downtown Prior Lake and Lakefront Park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 215
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 216
Assessment
Assessment: 61.1% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained but some amenities are in need of repair or
replacement.
Design & Character: Appealing gateway to Lakefront Park with seating, gardens, art,
and water feature.
Accessibility: Trails are very steep in some areas, not meeting ADA standards, and can
also be hazardous during wet and icy conditions.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining the park as needs dictate with necessary
repairs and working with partners for ongoing maintenance of gardens. If possible, a trail
connection that was less steep would be worth consideration.
Estimate of Probable Costs
Estimates to be prepared in conjunction with an updated design if an alternative trail
alignment is desired.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 217
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 218
Sand Point Beach
Classification: Community Park
Size: 20 Acres
Location: 514349 Crest Avenue NE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Boardwalk
Horseshoes
Volleyball Court
Fishing Pier
Beach
DNR Boat Access & Parking
Parking
Description: Established in 1976. Community park along the shores of Lower Prior Lake
with a special use for lake and water related activities. This site includes an adjacent DNR
boat launch with shared land use areas. Currently there is a fee for the beach parking lot
for cars, but not at the DNR lot for boats and trailers.
A recent project with the SLPLWD has utilized park space to accommodate a water
treatment area in the park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 219
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 220
Assessment
Assessment: 39.9% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained but many amenities are older and in fair to poor
condition and are in need of replacement.
Design & Character: The park lacks an inviting and appealing design. It does not make
best use of the space available in terms of pedestrian and vehicular circulation and the
amenities are generally scattered around the site.
Though separate, the DNR boat launch area is not well designed which causes frustration
and difficulty for those trying to get watercraft into the water. The boat and trailer parking
do not meet the length needed for the size of trailers currently parked in the lot and the
entrance drive to the park versus the boat launch can be confusing.
Accessibility: Overall lack of accessibility. Trails are very steep in some areas and a lack
of trail connections to amenities. The parking lot does not have ADA parking stalls that
meet requirements.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing a master plan for full redevelopment of
the two sites with the DNR and community involvement to ensure the needs of
stakeholders are being met. It is also recommended that the city either account for a
park usage fee in lieu of a parking fee or get rid of fees altogether. Currently the site is
free to anyone who can walk to it, which are mainly middle to high income
neighborhoods, whereas the lower income areas are far enough where vehicular use
and the related parking fee would apply.
Some general considerations include:
• Reconfigured parking for DNR and park (account for food trucks, food delivery
services, drop-offs, etc.
• New concessions building with meeting rooms, storage, etc.
• New group shelters with restrooms (2)
• Improved lawn games (bocce ball, horseshoes)
• Improved volleyball (3-4 preferred for tournaments)
• Smaller open air shelters or shade structures
• Splash pad
• Inclusive playground
• Improved beach experience
• Loop trail system
• Improved docks and piers
Estimate of Probable Costs
Estimates to be prepared in conjunction with an updated master plan design. Generally
this may likely range from $5 to $8 million, not considering the DNR site.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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Sand Point Park
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 6 Acres
Location: 5675 Cedarwood Trail NE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Basketball Court - half
Ballfield
Description: Established in 1976. Neighborhood park with a full amount of recreational
amenities located by Sand Point Beach.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 223
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 224
Assessment
Assessment: 38.9% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained but many amenities are older and range from
fair to poor condition and are in need of replacement.
Design & Character: The park has a nice setting with some mature trees along the
perimeter of the park. The ballfield has a poor orientation for games.
Accessibility: Trails are very steep in some areas, not meeting ADA standards. There
are trail connections to the shelter and playground, but not the court. Playground has
non-compliant sand but some rubber access points.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing a master plan for reorganization of the park
that is meant to provide neighborhood level elements with improved circulation and
connectivity and reorient the ballfield. Consider an internal trail loop and potentially add a
trail connection through easement on SE end of park at Aspen Avenue NE. With Sand
Point Beach in close proximity, don’t over duplicate or over develop the playground.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 225
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Estimate assumes costs for full redevelopment
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$100,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$75,000
Ballfield
$60,000
Trails
$45,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, bike racks, etc.)
$15,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
Basketball court – half
$14,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$415,000
15% Contingency
$62,250
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$83,000
Total:
$560,250
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 226
South Shore
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 1.4 Acres
Location: 2925 South Shore Drive
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Description: Established in 2009. Small neighborhood park that site up on a hill and
primarily only serves the adjacent homes in this area. A lack of any kind of parking allowed
or a conflict with boat and trailer parking in the street makes this park feel very inaccessible
and feels very private.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 227
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 228
Assessment
Assessment: 43.9% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair to poor condition and amenities are older and will need
to be replaced in the near future.
Design & Character: The park is surrounded mainly by streets, sits up on a hill and is
lacking proper trail connection to the street.
Accessibility: The park is considered completely inaccessible.
Recommendations
General recommendations include replace amenities as needed and keep minimal. Try
to identify an accessible trail connection to the amenities.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 229
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include earthwork costs
Description Cost Range
New playground equipment & surfacing $50,000
Optional: New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Trail connections $8,000
SubTotal: $151,500
15% Contingency
$22,700
20% Design & Engineering
$30,300
Total:
$204,500
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 230
Spring Lake
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: -- Acres
Location: 15851 Howard Lake Road
Existing Park Features
Parking
Description: City owned property adjoining Spring Lake Regional Park.
Recommendations
General recommendations include the development of a pickleball facility south of the
entrance road and sell the remainder of the land as it is not well suited for a community
athletic complex as it was originally considered.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 231
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 232
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Pickleball estimate includes pavement, color coating, fencing, & nets but does
not include any potential soil corrections – geotechnical soils investigation would
be necessary
• Initial parking lot included, not full future lot
• Estimate does not include bringing in utilities, such as sanitary, water or electrical
• Assumes area in red dashed outline could be sold
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Pickleball courts (8)
$165,000
Trails / walks
$10,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, etc.)
$25,000
Drinking fountain
$8,000
Group picnic shelter – medium w/electrical
$100,000
Optional: Restrooms added to shelter
$150,000
Parking lot (approx. 50 stalls) – aggregate w/paved HC stalls
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$603,000
15% Contingency
$90,450
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$120,600
Total:
$814,050
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 233
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 234
Stonebriar
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 0.2 Acres
Location: 17096 Stonebriar Circle
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Description: Established in 2007. Mini tot lot area behind high density housing along a
stormwater pond and near Hwy 13.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 235
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 236
Assessment
Assessment: 62.5% Rating
Overall Condition: Overall in good condition as it is newer, but the arbor is in fair
condition and needs maintenance.
Design & Character: Functional design and feels like it doesn’t fit well in the small space.
The arbor, if improved, is an appealing amenity. The site is very noisy from Hwy 13
traffic. The trail system is inviting and a pleasing experience but disjointed at Pheasant
Meadows and difficult to find where to connect back up to the trail system again.
Accessibility: Trails connect to the playground and it has wood fiber surfacing, so overall
good accessibility.
Recommendations
General recommendations include changing park designation from neighborhood to
natural park and potentially removing playground after it is in need of replacement if
there is a better trail connection to Sunset Hills. Add wayfinding signage to direct trail
users to connections.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 237
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include costs for trail replacement
• Does not include playground replacement costs due to good condition
• Assumes signs added along longer trail system
• Assumes contingency, design and engineering are not necessary
Description Cost Range
Site furnishings (improvements and new)
$10,000
Interpretive /wayfinding signs
$10,000
SubTotal:
$20,000
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 238
Sunset HIlls
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 3.5 Acres
Location: 3205 Balsam Street SW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Description: Established in 1979. Small neighborhood park across from Spring Lake.
Park is older and due to ongoing flooding issues with older age, is in a poor condition
overall.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 239
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 240
Assessment
Assessment: 28.2% Rating
Overall Condition: Overall in poor condition.
Design & Character: Functional design with what initially had a lot of recreational
amenities placed in a small park space.
Accessibility: Lacking proper accessibility. Lack of parking by the park which is an issue
for anyone who is not within walking distance.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing a master plan with the neighborhoods
who rely on this key park due to a lack of other developed park spaces nearby without
major barriers. There may be potential to work with the watershed district for some
funding due to the storm and flooding issues affecting the park currently.
Some recommendations include:
• Unique, fun playground for numerous ages
• Look at feasibility of some parking stalls along the street (2-3) for improved
access
• Leave more open green space remove dedicated ballfield
• Remove volleyball court
• Add smaller picnic shelter
• Basketball court (full) with 4-square and hopscotch striping
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 241
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes complete redevelopment
• Does not include stormwater design or construction
• Drinking fountain assumes water in close proximity
• Does not assume any shared costs
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container (smaller)
$100,000
Full Basketball Court
$30,000
Trails
$15,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$20,000
Drinking Fountain
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$353,000
15% Contingency
$52,950
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$70,600
Total:
$476,550
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 242
The Ponds
Classification: Community Park
Size: 70 Acres
Location: Ponds Parkway SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Basketball Court - full
Multi-Purpose Field
Archery Range
Parking
Description: Established in 1982. Community park focused on athletic fields. Includes
softball, baseball, open turf, football, an archery range and natural resources. Also
includes a playground and full basketball court.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 243
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 244
Assessment
Assessment: 34.2% Rating
Overall Condition: Well maintained. The amenities and site developments range in
condition from poor to fair due to age and the high amount of use as a community park
for athletics.
Design & Character: The overall park design feels very crowded. There is a lack of
adequate buffer space between fields, resulting in too many fields placed in the spaces
given and a lack of adequate parking to meet the needs of the programs that take place
here. The baseball field has a poor orientation for play. The natural resources are an
asset to the overall feel of the park and the placement of the main shelter structure on a
hill overlooking much of the park is an ideal location and vantage point. The main
entrance into Thomas Ryan and The Ponds is in need of improved turning, visibility and
pedestrian crossing, as there are many conflicts at this point.
Accessibility: The site has numerous issues with not meeting ADA compliance.
Recommendations
General recommendations include potentially relocating some of the ballfields at the time
the city is able to develop or implement fields at other sites. Some preliminary
recommendations if this can be accomplished would be to downsize the northernmost
two (2) ballfields from 250’ to 200’ for improved access, viewing and safety buffers. It is
also recommended to reorient the large baseball field and relocate the two (2) stand-
alone ballfields to dedicated turf fields and expand parking.
Until any ballfield relocations can take place, there is little opportunity to improve the
parking lot capacity.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates are to be completed at time of redevelopment or improvements.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 245
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 246
Thomas Ryan Memorial
Classification: Community Park / Athletic Complex
Size: 38.4 Acres
Location: 4600 Busse Parkway SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Basketball Court - half
Multi-Purpose Field
Parking
Description: Community park with a focus on athletics. The site contains a baseball
wheel complex and full size soccer fields.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 247
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 248
Assessment
Assessment: 60.7% Rating
Overall Condition: Most amenities are in fair condition, though some are in poor
condition and most of the development is aging. The high amount of use from athletic
programming contributes to the condition.
Design & Character: The ballfields have adequate separation with use areas spread out
across the site and the natural resources contribute an appealing park atmosphere. The
parking is currently inadequate to meet the programming needs of the site. Part of this is
due to the fact that the original parking lot was sized based on programming 4 full size
soccer fields for games, but some of the soccer fields broken up into multiple smaller
soccer fields, which has now led to the programming demands exceeding the parking
available. In one instance, the two full size fields have been broken up into sixteen (16)
smaller fields. At an estimate of 40 vehicles per field, that has increased the parking
demand on the site by 560 vehicles.
The main entrance into Thomas Ryan and The Ponds is in need of improved turning,
visibility and pedestrian crossing, as there are many conflicts at this point. The private
entrance drive in the park space is also very confusing and also leads to conflicts when
people are trying to utilize the private drive for parking.
Accessibility: Overall accessibility ranges from good to poor. Some amenities such as
the basketball court, just need a trail connection to resolve some of these issues.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate and consider relocating the far eastern soccer field if the city is able to develop or
implement fields at other sites to be expanded parking, which could accommodate up to
200 stalls if some additional lands were available to modify the main entrance. Until any
turf field relocations can take place, there is little opportunity to improve the parking lot
capacity but is highly recommended to program the fields in accordance with actual
parking lot capacity.
Additional recommendations include:
• Relocate the basketball court in a better location with a trail connection
• Add in another group shelter by the soccer fields, closer to the parking lot and
consider permanent restrooms in a picnic shelter
• Consider a permanent concessions building in the center of the wheel complex
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates to be completed at time of redevelopment or improvements. Generally
these may range from $1.5 to $2.5 million, depending on the extent of modifications.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 250
Timbercrest
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 2.8 Acres
Location: 4846 Bluff Heights Trail SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Trail Bridge
Basketball Court - half
Description: Established in 2002. Small neighborhood park in a very scenic setting but it
has a lot of road noise.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 251
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 252
Assessment
Assessment: 41.7% Rating
Overall Condition: Most amenities are still in fair to good condition, other than the
pedestrian bridge that had been blocked off due to conditions.
Design & Character: Overall feel of the park is very scenic and inviting, with a functional
design in terms of layout.
Accessibility: Playground has sand with some rubber, the court is not connected by a
trail. The trails into the park may exceed slope requirements.
Recommendations
General recommendations include maintaining, repairing and replacing items as needs
dictate. At time of replacement look at designing to ensure trails meet accessibility
requirements.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 253
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include trails extending from the park development north along the
wetland to Eagle Creek Ave or a pedestrian bridge
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$20,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Half Basketball Court
$14,000
Trails
$15,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$15,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$292,000
15% Contingency
$43,800
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$58,400
Total:
$394,200
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 254
Watzl’s Beach
Classification: Community / Special Use Park
Size: 3 Acres
Location: 15620 Red Oaks Beach
Existing Park Features
Beach
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: Hidden beach that is part of Lakefront Park. It is very scenic and located on
Lower Prior Lake in an area that is calmer, making beach activities work well.
Unfortunately, the long distance to the beach can result in users parking in the nearby
residential streets.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 255
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 256
Assessment
Assessment: 37.5% Rating
Overall Condition: The site is in fair to poor condition as it is older and in need of
improvements. The retaining wall failed in 2019, the existing building is not utilized for
concessions and more significant modifications may be needed. Some of the trails are
right along the slope edge leading to the water with edges that are failing. There is
considerable erosion along the concessions building.
Design & Character: While a scenic view of the lake, the beach site lacks character, the
site is very hidden and many people have difficulty finding it or even knowing it is located
here. The trails leading from Lakefront parking lots have a variety of memorial benches
which give it an eclectic feel.
Accessibility: The site lacks proper accessibility due to length from the parking lots and
the concessions building sits up on a little hill to stay above flood levels.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing an updated master plan for a new site
layout, potentially without a concessions building. There could be a feasibility study to
consider bringing in a small parking lot closer to the beach, though this would involve
significant retaining walls and associated costs.
Estimate of Probable Costs
Prepare an estimate with the master plan. This could likely range anywhere from
$300,000 to $3 million dollars depending on if the site has basic improvements or the
development of a parking lot.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 257
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 258
Westbury Ponds
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 22 Acres
Location: 16755 Simpkins Avenue SW
Existing Park Features
Trails
Boardwalk
Description: Established 1993. Natural resource area with varying trails and boardwalks.
It connects up to Five Hawks school which utilizes the site for their educational
programs.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 259
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 260
Assessment
Assessment: 16.7% Rating
Overall Condition: Overall the park was in fair to mainly poor condition. The trails have
roots going through them and the amenities are old and in need of replacement.
Design & Character: While the setting is very scenic and contains numerous natural
resources, the overall condition detracts from the experience. There is a trail from Willow
Beach Trail SW to Willow Lane SW that is very narrow and has an odd alignment at the
main park access by a residential lot driveway, which can be confusing.
Accessibility: Considered not accessible due to slopes and hazards.
Recommendations
There may be opportunity to work with the school district to improve the park to meet
their programming needs, such as group gathering areas, additional educational nodes,
natural play areas, and overall, improved amenities. The site will need ongoing natural
resource management.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 261
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Boardwalk costs assume more structural approach / design
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$30,000
Natural play areas
$50,000
Trails
$100,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$20,000
Boardwalk replacement
$250,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$470,000
15% Contingency
$70,500
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$94,000
Total:
$634,500
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 262
Whitetail Island
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 16 Acres
Location: 5384 Trailhead Lane SE
Description: Wetland complex with an island of wooded upland between the Deerfield
and Enclave neighborhoods. Currently undeveloped.
Recommendations
At one time a boardwalk system that connected to the island was proposed, but due to
extensive costs and maintenance, this would not be a high priority. Natural resource
management is needed.
Estimate of Probable Costs
No estimates included at this time.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 263
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 264
Wilderness Ponds (see also Deerfield)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 20 Acres
Location: 16551/16598 Blind Lake Trail SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Open Lawn
Description: Established 1995. Neighborhood park development at the intersection of 2
streets and part of a larger wetlands complex that includes Deerfield park. This
neighborhood consists of single family to high density with a lot of children.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 265
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 266
Assessment
Assessment: 27.8% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is maintained well, but most amenities are very outdated and are
in need of replacement. The shelter has woodpeckers living it.
Design & Character: Small but appealing park with nice curb appeal and a scenic
woodland and wetland backdrop. There is a fire station across the street.
Accessibility: The site does not have any trails and therefore lacks accessibility.
Recommendations
Keep this park at a higher level of condition due to the fact it is serving a high density
residential area with a considerable amount of children in the adjacent neighborhoods.
General recommendations include creating a master plan for Deerfield and Wilderness
Ponds together in order to improve the recreational value to meet broader age groups
and to provide complementary features.
Suggestions include keeping this portion of the park focused on some amenities for
older youth to teens as Deerfield is more focused on younger aged children. This could
include some interesting play feature or challenge equipment that could also be utilized
by fire fighters and a full basketball court. Another consideration is if the skate park is not
rebuilt at Lakefront Park, consider relocating the skatepark here due to its high visibility
and location by a fire station.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 267
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include costs for skate park
• Refer to Deerfield Park for additional costs for consideration
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$30,000
Removals
$10,000
Unique or challenge equipment, surfacing and container
$150,000
Trails
$10,000
Basketball Court – full
$30,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$253,000
15% Contingency
$37,950
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$50,600
Total:
$341,550
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 268
Wilds
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 7.8 Acres
Location: 5200 Wilds Parkway NW
Park Development:
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Open Lawn
Basketball Court - half
Volleyball Court
Parking
Description: Established 1997. Neighborhood park development with a wide range of
amenities, available parking and fairly centrally located within surrounding
neighborhoods.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 269
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 270
Assessment
Assessment: 48.9% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is maintained wall and generally in fair condition though some
amenities and pavements are older and in need of replacement, including the parking
and the sidewalks along the street.
Design & Character: Appealing neighborhood park with a nice backdrop but could use
more landscaping and trees within the park. Functional design but interesting terracing.
The volleyball is not an ideal orientation, but not necessary for non-programmed games.
The ballfield is aimed at the volleyball court which is not ideal.
Accessibility: Trail connections to the shelter and playground but not the courts.
Recommendations
General recommendations include at time of replacement to undertake a master plan
process to improve overall layout, circulation and function of the park. Consider removal
of the volleyball court, include a full basketball court, loop trail and if the site is
programmed for games, consider a permanent restroom.
This is a key park for the surrounding neighborhood that should be kept to a high quality.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 271
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes removal of the volleyball court
• Does not include permanent restrooms
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Trails
$40,000
Full Basketball Court
$30,000
Ballfield improvements
$100,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$20,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – medium
$70,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$478,000
15% Contingency
$71,700
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$95,600
Total:
$645,300
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Wilds North
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 7.8 Acres
Location: 2863 Cougar Path NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Basketball Court – half
Description: established 2002. Small neighborhood park tucked back between high
density and single family homes.
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CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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Assessment
Assessment: 49.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is maintained well, overall condition is good with a few
improvements needed, such as some drainage concerns.
Design & Character: Small park and some amenities feel too crowded for the space
allowed. The ballfield seems out of place due the space around it and could be better as
just an open lawn. Doggie stations are nice to have. Empty concrete pad detracts from
user experience.
Accessibility: Lacking proper accessibility. Some minor trail additions would correct this
situation. The trail to the basketball court should be realigned so the goal is not centered
on it.
Recommendations
Make proper trail connections to the playground, shelter, and fix the trail connection to
the court so it is not aligned with the goal. Remove the agg lime infield and leave as
open green space.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include costs for drainage improvements and assumed design,
engineering and permits are not necessary
Description Cost Range
Trails (new connections)
$5,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$5,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$5,000
Total:
$58,000
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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Willows
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 2.5 Acres
Location: 16950 Elm Avenue SW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Basketball Court - half
Parking
Description: Established 1968. Neighborhood park along a busy street and has an upper
developed area and lower ballfield.
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Assessment
Assessment: 44.4% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair to good condition with some amenities getting older and
in need of replacement in the near future.
Design & Character: Lacking proper parking with just a few spaces off of a narrow street
and along a busy street with a lot of noise. The chainlink fencing along the street
detracts from the park character. The mature trees around the perimeter provide a nice
setting. The ballfield sits down in a lower area and there are likely some drainage issues
in the outfield.
Accessibility: The playground and shelter are connected by trail, the court is not. The
parking lot does not meet ADA requirements.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing an updated master plan for redesigning
the park with a better layout and circulation. This may include adding some parallel
parking stalls along the side street to account for park and game usage.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include street costs for added parking stalls
• Assumes full redevelopment
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$70,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Basketball half court
$14,000
Trails
$15,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$312,000
15% Contingency
$46,800
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$62,400
Total:
$421,200
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
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Woodridge
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 2.5 Acres
Location: 16950 Elm Avenue SW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Description: Neighborhood park development on a hill.
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Assessment
Assessment: 43.9% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is maintained well, overall condition is good with a few
improvements needed.
Design & Character: Odd shape to the park and the grade difference makes it feel
hidden from the street. The ballfield has a very short outfield and is aimed at residential
lots. The shelter and playground have a functional design. The playground looks small
compared to the container area available.
Accessibility: Lacking proper ADA access in some areas due to steep trail segments.
Recommendations
At time of replacement, consider a new layout that makes better use of the space, has
improved accessible trails and creates a more park-like atmosphere. Consider removal
of the ballfield and leave as an open green turf field for informal use and add in a half
basketball court.
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Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes removal of the ballfield
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$20,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$70,000
Trails
$20,000
Half Basketball Court
$14,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$25,000
SubTotal:
$277,000
15% Contingency
$41,550
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$55,400
Total:
$373,950
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Woods at the Wilds
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 2.5 Acres
Location: 3190 Wildwood Trail NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: Mini neighborhood park development along a pond by the golf course with a
little playground and pavilion up on a hill.
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Assessment
Assessment: 39.6% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in good condition, though the equipment is older and nearing
the end of its lifespan.
Design & Character: Appealing little park but very inaccessible. There is no parking
along this street until you get further down by residential lots. The pavilion is very
pleasing though older and the site has a scenic setting.
Accessibility: Not accessible.
Recommendations
General recommendations include phasing out development in line with the natural open
space area due to other nearby parks and lack of being able to access this park
properly.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The removals could range from $5,000 - $15,000.
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Woodview
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: 16 Acres
Location: 17180 Sunray Circle SW
Existing Park Features
Trails
Description: Established 1984. Wooded natural resource area with bituminous trails.
Assessment
Assessment: 58.3% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair condition, though natural resource management will be
necessary.
Design & Character: Appealing trails but wayfinding signage needed.
Accessibility: Some sections of the trails exceed ADA requirements.
Recommendations
General recommendations include repairing and replacing trails as needed and adding
in wayfinding and interpretive signage. Areas for natural programs could be
implemented. Costs to fall under trail replacement program.
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5.1 Overview
Trails are a popular recreational amenity that serve an important role in connecting parks,
open spaces, schools, and other primary destinations within the community and also serve
to provide an alternative form of transportation to vehicular modes.
This section describes the key principles and values, classifications, and a general
overview of the city of Prior Lake’s trail system plan with priority corridors focused primarily
on improved recreation and connectivity. It identifies system gaps, safety concerns, goals,
classifications, best practices and management of trails, and recommendations for
proposed trail routes. A more thorough discussion on these and other trail sections can
be found in the city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
.
5
Trail System Plan
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5.2 Trail System Classifications & Design Standards
A. Trail System Classifications
The trail system plan consists of trails and pedestrian-ways/sidewalks defined under
various classifications. The distinction between classifications is important due to the
variability in their value, which in turn greatly affects the importance of the system to
residents and the degree to which the various trails, sidewalks and bike lanes will be used.
The following table describes the general trail classification types.
Trail Classification General Description
Regional Trails A multi-use trail of regional significance and designation.
Regional trails are typically paved trails for walking, jogging,
bicycling, and in-line skating and located within a greenway,
open space, park, or designated trail corridor and can cross
many municipal boundaries. Trails are typically a minimum
of 10-feet wide and asphalt surfaced meeting regional trail
design guidelines.
Paved Multi-use Trails General multi-use trails are typically a minimum of 8-feet
wide and asphalt surfaced. Multi-use trails provide routes
within parks and connections to parks and destination areas
with an emphasis on safe travel within the community for
walking, jogging, and biking (as well as other wheeled forms
of recreational travel). Trails in scenic settings and
greenways are highly desirable.
Bike Lanes Bike lanes are a dedicated portion of the roadway
designated by signage, striping or other pavement markings
for the exclusive use of bicyclists. Striped bicycle lanes are
recommended to be a minimum of 5 feet in width.
On-Street Shared Use
Routes
On-street shared use routes on higher speed/volume roads
are primarily oriented towards the skilled fitness and
transportation bicyclists. On-street shared use routes on
lower speed / volume residential roads are expanded to
include more family and recreational users. On-street routes
can include pavement markings or signage to indicate a
shared use lane and can also include the shoulder of a road
if wide enough. Some lower volume roads or shared use
living street applications are predominantly restricted to a
walking or biking pace with equal priority given to all modes
of transportation and are typically built with traffic calming
design measures to reduce conflicts.
Sidewalks Sidewalks can accommodate bikes and other wheeled
modes of pedestrian transportation, though their narrower
width and concrete surface are not well suited for these
uses. Sidewalks are most often located within a road right-
of-way and ideally are a minimum of 5 feet in width.
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Nature Trails Nature trails can consist of earthen, wood chip or aggregate
surfaces, though the trail itself should be constructed in a
manner that creates a firm and stable surface suitable for
meeting the Americans with Disabilities Act. Nature trails
should also be constructed in a manner that reduces the
propensity for ongoing erosion and maintenance issues.
Specialty Recreational
Trails
Specialty recreational trails, for the purposes of this plan,
encompass a variety of trail types used for recreational
purposes. This can include mountain biking, cross-country
skiing, horseback riding, etc.
Trail Values and Preferences
The following table identifies the values and preferences of each user group to help
match the different trail types to the varying needs and desires of the users based on
their preferences.
User Group Values and Preferences
Family
(Various Modes)
• Safety and convenience are top priorities
• Value pleasant experience
• Controlled traffic-free access to sidewalk and trails
preferred
• Overall length of the trail is less important than the quality
of the experience
• Will use low-volume residential streets for biking and
skating, but will rarely busy streets even if there are bike
lanes or designated on-street routes identified
Recreational • Safety and convenience important but this group is more
comfortable with street crossings
• Loop trail routes preferred
• Pleasant experience desired for repeated use
• Overall length of the trail is important for repeated use
(minimum 20 miles of connected trails desired for bikers)
• Bicyclists and in-line skaters will use low-volume residential
streets for biking and skating, more experienced cyclists
will use bike lanes and on-street routes
Fitness • Length of trail, experience and challenge level are most
important factors
• Convenience and setting also important
• Loop routes preferred
• Will use a combination of walks, trails and roads
• Cyclists generally comfortable with roads but prefer bike
lanes and shoulders on busy streets with signage
• Walkers/skaters prefer trails and walks
Transportation • Direct routes are important
• Cyclists generally comfortable with roads but prefer bike
lanes and shoulders on busy streets with signage and will
also use wide multi-use trails
• Walkers/skaters prefer trails and walks
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As the comparisons illustrate, the type of trails, and resultant quality of the experience
relative to expectations, within the system greatly affects whether a given targeted user
group will routinely use a component. The important point is that the quality of
experience matters and that any deviation from an optimal classification, alignment and
design detail will directly affect its success.
If trails and pedestrian routes do not meet expectations, it will result in low use of
facilities and the residents will not see any value to support future trail facilities or
improvements. The system plan presented in this section is based on this fundamental
premise.
B. Trail System Design Standards
The following design standards should be considered for all biking and walking
infrastructure, including trails. Standards help make facilities safer by maintaining
consistency and ensuring that the greatest number of people will be able to access and
enjoy the system. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has specific requirements
for the slopes, size, crossing placement, and other elements of pedestrian facilities.
The following are just a few common design standards and more in-depth design should
be followed according to traffic and bike manuals.
Design Standards
Multi-Use Trails:
• Bituminous pavement
• 8-feet wide minimum, with 10 to 12 feet
wide preferred
• 2 foot clear zone on either side
• High use routes should include center
striping for safety
• Additional design standards for regional and
Federal/State funded trails to adhere to
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Bike lane example Source: Arstechnia.com
Bike Lanes:
• Exclusive striped lane markings on roadway
(stiped lane designation, symbols, colored
markings, etc.)
• 4 feet wide minimum, 5 feet preferred (curb
gutter pans do not count towards this width)
• 2-way traffic to have bike lanes on both
sides (bikes to follow direction of traffic)
• “Bike Lane” sign recommended
On-Street Shared Routes:
• Shoulder, shared lane markings or
unmarked route
• Recommended only on roads 35 mph or
less
• “Share the Road” sign and/or painted
markings preferred
Sidewalks:
• Concrete pavement
• 5 to 6 feet wide preferred
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Pedestrian activated sidewalk example
Source: CaltransCA.gov
High Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK)
example
Trail Crossings
Prior Lake community members are concerned with safety of pedestrians and bicyclists
due to traffic, lighting levels, speed limits, and sight lines.
In order to minimize the potential for conflicts with vehicle traffic, design and attention
should be paid to trail and sidewalk crossing facilities. There are a number of options for
treatment including those that reduce crossing distances, warn drivers of people
crossing, or stop vehicle traffic entirely can be used to create safer crossings. Each
solution should be adapted and designed to the specific site, road and trail, but best
practices are included herein. These crossing improvements can be completed as
standalone projects or as part of a roadway reconstruction project.
• Curb Extensions
• Marked Crosswalks
• Median Refuge Islands
• Pedestrian Activated Crossings
• High Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK)
• LED Signage and Warning Systems
Curb Extension and Marked Crosswalk Example
Median refuge island example Source: FHWA,
UsDOT
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Roadway Crossing Facilities for Trails
Type Description
Best Use Design Guidelines
Curb
Extensions
Curb extensions are
bump-outs that
lengthen the sidewalk
and shorten the
crossing distance.
When crossing higher-
volume roadways in more
urban areas such as the
downtown and commercial
areas, at primary
intersections. Used to
decrease the crossing time
and can lower traffic
speeds by narrowing the
street.
Should not extend into traffic
lanes or cut off bike lanes.
Intended for streets with on-
street parking or wide
shoulders. Should be visible for
oncoming traffic.
Marked
Crosswalk
A marked portion of the
roadway indicating use
for pedestrians to cross
a roadway.
At intersections or
uncontrolled, mid-block
locations, if warranted. Mid-
block crossings should be
avoided if there is an
intersection alternative that
is close and likely to be
used. If mid-block crossings
are used, active notification
(signage) should be
considered as part of the
design. Durable materials
(rather than paint) should
be used when feasible.
Crosswalks at mid-block
locations may be accompanied
by active warning systems to
increase awareness, evaluated
on a case-by-case basis.
Six foot (6’) minimum width but
to match full trail/walk width.
Continental markings or zebra-
style recommended
(perpendicular to crosswalk
direction). Lines should be 12-
24 inches wide and be spaced
12-24 inches apart.
Appropriate warning signage
may be considered.
Median
Refuge
Islands
Protected spaces
placed in the center of
a street to provide a
safe zone halfway
through an intersection,
allowing pedestrians to
navigate only one
direction of traffic at a
time.
When crossing high speed
and high-volume roads,
such as state and county
roadways. Placed at
primary signalized or un-
signalized intersections.
Can also calm traffic.
Six foot (6’) minimum width but
to match full trail/walk width
with 10 foot (10’) minimum
width recommended. Medians
should be raised at least 6
inches. Shape of the island
should conform to the natural
vehicle paths.
Must be clearly visible for
oncoming vehicles, include
reflective markers around the
median.
Pedestrian
Activated
Crossings
A warning system used
at crosswalks that flash
a blinking light to
oncoming motor
vehicles to alert them of
pedestrians or cyclists
using the crosswalk.
The most common
pedestrian activated
crossing used is the
Rectangular Rapid
Flashing Beacon
(RRFB).
Used when crossing at mid-
block and unsignalized
intersections. Should not be
used at signalized
intersections or
intersections with a yield or
stop sign.
Pedestrian activated crossings
should be installed on the sides
of roadways. Beacons should
not be lit unless being used by
pedestrians and cyclists to
cross the intersection. . If
pedestrian activated crossings
are used in locations where
bicyclists can or will likely use
them, then the City should
consider placing them in
locations where cyclists can
activate them without having to
dismount from their bicycle.
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Roadway Crossing Facilities for Trails
Type Description
Best Use Design Guidelines
High
Intensity
Activated
Crosswalk
(HAWK)
Hybrid beacons consist
of an overhead signal
over the major street
and have two horizontal
red lights on top of one
yellow light to alert
drivers of people using
the crosswalk. The
HAWK or hybrid
beacon is only lit when
pedestrians or bicyclists
activate the system.
Coordinate with county or
MnDOT on HAWK
crossings. Typically used
when a major street
intersects a minor road with
low traffic volumes and
does not warrant a traffic
signal. Pedestrian activated
or automatic detecting
system recommended to
reduce likelihood of drivers
being desensitized to
constant lights.
MMUTCD permits the use of
hybrid beacons depending on
vehicle speed, traffic volume,
intersection length, and
pedestrian volume.
The MMUTCD provides
standards including location
and height, length of signal
phases.
Must meet MMUTCD Chapter
4C standards and justification
of an engineering study.
LED
Signage and
Warning
Systems
Flashing LED stop
signs or LED markers
in the pavement /
crosswalk to alert
vehicles of a Stop sign
or that a pedestrian is
using a crosswalk.
Utilizing LEDs can be an
effective way to catch a
driver’s attention and can
be used to provide advance
notice of a crossing ahead.
They are also beneficial
when visibility conditions
are poor (e.g., nighttime,
poor weather).
The MMUTCD regulates
design, color, spacing, and
usage of light sources used for
traffic crossings.
Additional Trail Resources
There are many resources and reference materials at the state and national level that
provide valuable insight on everything from signage and facility design to maintenance.
Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MMUTCD)
Any signage, striping, or traffic control features should follow the standards and
design practices outlined in the MMUTCD, the guiding reference document for all
traffic control devices in Minnesota. The federal Manual on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices can also provide additional information.
MnDOT Bikeway Facility Design Manual
This manual provides bicycle facility design guidance with a specific focus on the
Minnesota context and providing consistent facilities for users across the state.
Note: this manual is currently being revised and updated.
AASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, 2019
This guide outlines a set of national design standards for bikeways, including
trails. It also addresses related issues such as signage, maintenance, and the
bicycle planning process for reflect designs for people of all ages and abilities.
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APBP Essentials of Bike Parking: Selecting and Installing Bicycle Parking
that Works
The APBP (Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals) produced this
guide as a useful reference to inform bike rack selection, siting, installation, and
other issues relating to providing parking in different contexts.
MnDNR Trail Planning, Design and Development Guidelines
A comprehensive trail manual covering all aspects of trail planning, design, and
development for use by public agencies across the state, professional planners,
designers, and lay persons interested in trails. Available online at through
MnDNR at: www.mndnr.gov/publications/trails_ waterways.
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Design Factors
The trail system plan consists of trails and pedestrian-ways/sidewalks defined under
various classifications and based upon preferences for different user groups.
Four primary factors that can affect the overall use and success of a trail include:
• Trail safety, quality and convenience
• Connectivity
• Scenic quality and diversity
• Health, wellness and fitness opportunities
Trail Safety, Quality and Convenience
A sense of physical and personal safety is the most important value. If people don’t feel
safe, they will not be inclined to use a trail or pedestrian-way no matter how many other
values might be provided.
Physical safety can be relatively assured through good planning and design. Personal
safety, which relates to a sense of well-being while using the system, is a less tangible
yet still very important factor that cannot be taken lightly. This is especially important with
safe routes to school, as parents will only allow their children to walk or bike to school if
there is a high perception of safety. Visibility, location, lighting, and safe crosswalks all
contribute to the overall trail safety.
Quality and convenience are the personal values that are given more consideration by
the user once safety has been addressed. Convenience is important for day-
to-day use of the trail system and as alternative form of transportation. As is clear from
various studies, the vast majority of shared-use paved trails are used by those living
within a few miles of the trail. Although convenience is important, its influence is still
tempered by its recreational value. No matter how convenient, a poorly designed trail
system feature in an uninteresting setting will have limited recreational value.
Alternatively, a well-designed trail feature in an interesting setting might draw users from
greater distances. The point is that all trails, pedestrian-ways, and bikeways should be
located where they are both convenient and offer the amenities that users are seeking.
Residents of Prior Lake felt that there were trail segments that are not of a high quality
and they felt it was more important to adequately maintain and replace existing trails
than it was to add additional trails to the system, along with a focus on completing gaps
for high priority routes and connections. Safe pedestrian crossing over busy streets were
also of high concern throughout the community.
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Connectivity
Trails should connect people to nature, schools, parks, businesses, and other primary
destinations. This is especially important areas with low-income, high density and senior
populations that may rely less on vehicles for their mode of transportation.
Connected lengths of trails make longer trips possible with more opportunities for
recreational experiences and commuter options. The transportation (commuting) aspect
of an alternative transportation system is valuable to a subset of the overall user
population. Although this is traditionally a value that appeals to a smaller group of users,
an underlying goal of the plan is to entice recreational, fitness, and utilitarian users to
use the system more and more for transportation. Transportation purposes include using
the system to get to work, school, local stores, or around the neighborhood, along with
other utilitarian trips that would otherwise be done using a motor vehicle.
Realizing the use of the system for transportation will only be successful if it is perceived
as safe, convenient relative to a user’s skill level, and of a high quality. Without such a
system, residents will simply continue to use their vehicle. A well connected trail system
that connects to parks also expands the ability to have longer distances between the
parks and the route itself can be a desired recreational experience.
During the planning process, trails ranked the highest in terms of needs and desires for
the community, especially for more complete routes offering the best connectivity to the
regional parks and adjacent communities, with a pedestrian route along Highway 13
being the highest priority for completion. Routes connecting to the schools also ranked
very high.
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Scenic Quality and Diversity
Of all the values ascribed to a trail system, recreational value is one of the most
important in terms of predicting the level of use by most residents, assuming that safety
and convenience are not issues. In general, system features offering a high-quality
recreational experience occur along trails that:
• Are scenic and located in a pleasant setting, natural open space or linear corridor
buffered from traffic and the built environment.
• Provide a continuous and varying experience that takes visitor to a variety of
destinations and is a destination unto itself.
• Offers continuity with limited interruptions and impediments to travel.
• Allows for diverse types of trails and experiences meeting varying needs,
preferences, abilities, and levels of challenge.
Planning and connecting the trail system is more than simply providing miles of trails,
sidewalks, and bike lanes. There should be emphasis placed on the quality of the
experience more than the quantity with a focus on connectivity.
While well located trails often pose more challenges (and potentially more costs) to
implement, the value of these features to the community will likely prove to be worth the
investment. Trails should be developed away from high volume traffic routes as much as
possible in order to be successful. Routes along vehicular traffic are not as well received
and will mean that implementation and maintenance costs on routes with lower overall
use will not be the most effective use of fiscal resources, whereas scenic routes with
shade and resting opportunities will attract more ongoing use and make the investments
more worthwhile.
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Health, Fitness and Wellness Opportunities
Health, wellness and fitness is an ever-expanding value for trail users. Especially in
locations where residents use the trail for daily fitness, such as daily walks by active
seniors, after-work bike rides, and dog walking.
Trails that provide the highest value for health and wellness tend to have looped routes,
places to sit, shade, scenic vistas, places for drinking water, and access to restrooms
available. Another important factor is providing routes that do not contribute negatively to
overall health, such as those along high volume traffic routes where air quality and noise
can be negative factors.
Varying levels of challenge are important to provide adequate ease of use for those with
mobility issues and allowing other routes to provide more challenge for those who seek
out a greater fitness challenge
Also of concern for many trail users is having identifiable trail routes that are designed
within ADA recommendations and guidelines. This allows those with limited mobility, or
other factors, to be able to seek out the less strenuous trail routes that do not have steep
slopes, difficult surfacing or challenging transitions. Those who prefer challenging fitness
opportunities are seeking out more strenuous routes with varying inclines.
In order to meet the needs of the community, it is critical to develop an interconnected
trail system that provides route options of varying lengths, experiences and challenge
levels with proper identification.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 302
5.3 Trail System Plan & Recommendations
As stated previously, a well-connected and quality trail system is a high priority for the
community. The local trail system plan consists of trails and sidewalks defined under the
Trail Classifications. Proposed trail connections will prioritize connections to primary
destinations, parks, regional corridors, and schools.
A. Existing Trail System
Regional System
The regional trail system in Prior Lake consists of some existing segments of trails and
future planned corridors.
Scott County West Regional Trail
Scott County and Three Rivers Park District joint partnership. Scott County has
approximately 8 miles of existing trail segments and has planned for a 16.4 mile
trail system that will ultimately connect to Cleary Lake Regional Park, Spring
Lake Regional Park and Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve, while also providing a
trail connection to the Minnesota Valley State Trail. The portions that exist are
along County Roads 21, 82 and 79.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 303
Spring Lake Regional Trail
The Spring Lake Regional Park trails connect to the Scott County West Regional
Trail on the north side of the park on County Road 82. The proposed trail is
planned to start from existing trails within Spring Lake Regional Park along
County Road 12/Shoreline Blvd and extend down to connect to trails in Jordan
and then north to the Minnesota Valley State Trail and Carver County trail
system. When completed it will connect with the following:
• Minnesota River Bluffs Regional Trail
• Southwest Regional Trail
• Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail
Lake Marion Greenway Trail
The Lake Marion Greenway trail system consists of a 20-mile planned trail route
through Burnsville, Savage, Credit River Township, Lakeville and Farmington
with the intention of linking the Minnesota River to Murphy Hanrehan Park
Reserve, Ritter Farm Park, Lake Marion, downtown Lakeville, South Creek, and
downtown Farmington where it will connect into the North Creek Greenway.
While this trail is not planned to be located within Prior Lake, the Scott County
West Regional Trail through Prior Lake will provide a connection to it.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 304
Proposed Lake Marion Greenway Trail
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 305
Local System
The local system contains a network of sidewalks, separated trails and some shared use
routes. The assessment of the existing system along with identified gaps and pedestrian
safety concerns shaped the following recommendations.
B. Trail & Open Space System Plan & Recommendations
The overall strategy for the trail and open space system plan is built around the premise
of maintaining a safe and high-quality system along primary trail routes for an improved
recreational experience and closing the trail gaps that will provide greater regional
connectivity.
The creation of an interconnected network of natural open spaces, greenways and trails
is meant to serve a wide variety of active and passive recreational needs while providing
access to primary destinations.
Trail Implementation
The cost of trail implementation is a major barrier for communities hoping to build out their
non-motorized transportation and recreational networks. The following table outlines
planning-level cost estimates provided by MnDOT for common bicycle facilities. While
actual implementation costs can vary dramatically, these figures provide a general idea of
the investment required and the cost differences between various facility types.
Type Unit Cost per Mile
Paved Shoulder $250,000 - $510,000
Bike Lane $14,000 - $20,000
Buffered Bike Lane $17,000 - $25,000
Delineator-Separated Bike Lane $24,000 - $34,000
Curb-Separated Bike Lane
w/colored pavement
$1,770,000 - $2,490,000
Shared Use Path (Trail) $250,000 - $360,000
Source: MnDOT District 7 Bicycle Plan
Funding Improvements
Ongoing investments in the trail system are needed to implement the recommendations,
improvements and maintenance practices identified in this plan. The city should continue
to identify trail maintenance funding and additional equipment needs into its annual
budgeting process and ensure this funding is carried through into the necessary action
plan steps. Without ongoing dedicated funding in place, the effect is that the costs will
“snowball” out of control leaving the city with a very large deficit that needs to be bridged
and a highly downgraded system that leaves users with a sense of dissatisfaction. The
longer costs are delayed, the higher the costs are to replace them.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 306
There will be opportunities for the city to continue to expand upon the trail and pedestrian
system through transportation projects and partnerships. City staff should annually review
the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funds to identify opportunities to integrate trail
projects into upcoming capital improvement projects. Funds should continue to be
evaluated to determine whether they are adequate to address the actual demand and
needs.
In addition, the city should explore cost participation opportunities with Scott County and
MnDOT for trails that can be incorporated as part of road construction projects and
regional trail networks along county and state highways. Another opportune partner is the
SMSC who provides some grant funding specifically for trails.
Additional external funding opportunities to consider are included in the following table.
Program Description
Award Amount Application
Timeframe
Transportation
Alternatives
Program
(MnDOT)
Funding opportunity for local and
regional agencies for pedestrian
and bicycle facilities and
programs
Varies Fall Annually
Statewide Health
Improvement
Partnership
(MDH)
Funding available for programs
that focus on improving health
and decreasing obesity in
Minnesota (not available for
infrastructure, but can fund plans
or some trailhead amenities)
Up to 90%
of project costs
On-going
Local Trail
Connections
Program (DNR)
Funding opportunity for non-
motorized trails that connect to
key regional recreation
destinations
Funding
opportunity for non-
motorized trails that
connect to key
regional recreation
destinations
Spring Annually
Highway Safety
Improvement
Program
(MnDOT)
Intended to improve highway
safety. Portion of funding can be
allocated to finance bike and
pedestrian safety and driver
safety programs on highways
Up to 90%
of project costs
Up to 90%
of project costs
People for Bikes
Community
Grant
Funding opportunity for
pedestrian and bicycle facilities
and corridor improvements
Up to $10,000
but funding
amount must be
49% or less of the
total project cost
April and
September
Annually
Private
Donations and
Sponsorships
Private donations and
sponsorships or park and trail
facilities could be provided to
implement key trail segments or
trailhead facilities.
Varies Varies
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 307
Proposed Trail Routes & Priorities
Regional trail segments are designated based upon existing and planned corridors
according to the master plans completed by various agencies. This plan may illustrate
alternative segments for planned routes for consideration but are not considered to be an
approved designated regional trail route. If these alternative segments do not become part
of the regional trail planned route, they would remain a city owned route.
High Priority Recommendations
• Prioritize filling in major gaps in the system to allow for greater connectivity and
safe pedestrian travel to primary destinations within the city and to regional
connections.
• Following primary trail gaps, prioritize the improvement of existing trails over the
development of new trails to be based upon the pavement ratings.
• Prioritize funding of trail improvements and developments.
• Seek funding and partnership opportunities to implement the trail improvements
and developments.
The following maps identify proposed trails, walks and pedestrian crossing improvements.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 308
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 309
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 310
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 311
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 312
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 313
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 314
The following table outlines the initial higher priority trail gaps needed to complete the trail
system for improved connectivity. These segments were studied in greater depth to
identify potential improvements and constraints along the corridors, with estimates of
probable costs included. For additional information, refer to the Trail Gap Analysis in the
Appendix and the map enlargements provided after the tables.
Trail
Segment Trail Description
Trail
Length
(miles)
Cost
1 Bituminous trail on north side of Hwy 13
Egan Dr to Boudin Street SE and
Rustic Rd SE to Oakland Beach Ave SE
0.64 $689,700
1 Section of Segment #1 to include boardwalk
and retaining walls
0.18 $2,100,000
2 Bituminous trail on north side of Hwy 13
150th St SE to Fish Point Road
0.79 $881,000
3 Bituminous trail on north side of Hwy 13
Fish Point Road to Eagle Creek Ave (CSAH
21)
1.30 $5,609,900
4 Pedestrian Bridge A along 160th St SE (CSAH
44) from St. Paul Ave to Main Ave South
0.10 $2,177,200
5 Bituminous trail on North side of Hwy 13 from
Eagle Creek Ave SE (CSAH 21) to Anna Trail
SE
0.37 $1,293,500
6 Bituminous trail between Eagle Creek Ave SE
(CSAH 21) and Credit River Rd from
Adelmann St (trail stops here currently) SE to
Revere Way intersection and
A concrete sidewalk from Markley Ct SE to
Credit River Road
0.65 $405,200
7 Bituminous trail on north side of Eagle Creek
Ave SE (CSAH 21) from Revere Way to
Texas Ave (CR 27)
1.03 $674,900
8 Bituminous trail on west side of Revere Way
from Eagle Creek Ave SE (CSAH 21) to 180th
St E and
Bituminous trail on north side of 180th St E
from Revere Way to existing trail
1.24 $2,134,300
9 Bituminous trail along north side of 180th St E
to Mushtown Rd and
Bituminous trail along west / south side of
Mushtown Road from 180th St E to trail at
Lone Pine Ct
0.61 $421,000
10 Bituminous trail along north side of Hwy 13
from Stonebriar Cir SW to Fairlawn Ave
(CSAH 81)
0.86 $2,635,900
11 Bituminous trail along north side of Hwy 13
from Fairlawn Ave (CSAH 81) to Vergus Ave
1.12 $2,947,300
12 Bituminous trail along north side of Hwy 13
from Vergus Ave to Marschall Rd (CR 17)
0.99 $2,302,600
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 315
Trail
Segment Trail Description
Trail
Length
(miles)
Cost
13 Regional Trail Route: Bituminous trail along
Marschall Rd (CR 17) from Country Trail E to
city limits
0.81 $885,800
14 Regional Trail Route: Bituminous trail along
Marschall Rd (CR 17) from city limits to 170th
St E (CR 12)
0.39 $667,700
15 Concrete sidewalk along north side of Cougar
Path NW between existing trail segments and
Bituminous trail on north side of 140th St NW
(CR 42) from Shepherd’s Path NW to Eagle
Creek Ave NE (CSAH 21)
0.50 $315,200
16 Concrete sidewalks along Raspberry Ridge
Rd NE, following along Hidden Pond Trl SE
and also along Appaloosa Trl NE
0.28 $381,000
Total: $26,522,200
The following table identifies remaining primary pedestrian crossings and trail segments
that did not include a more in-depth design feasibility study. As road construction
projects and opportunities arise, these segments should continually be reviewed. Any
projects that may become a higher priority should have a feasibility study done to
determine probable costs for construction costs and impacts.
Trail
Segment
Trail Description
17 Regional Trail Route: Bituminous trail
18 Bituminous trail on north side of County Road 42 / 140th St NW between
Marschall Road and Mystic Lake Drive
19 Bituminous trail on SMSC property that may be a future consideration to
connect to existing park trails
20 Bituminous trail from Marschall Road / County Road 14 south through
greenway natural areas and around Campbell Lake
21 Bituminous trail along Marschall Road from Howard Lake Road south to
County Road 12 / Shoreline Blvd / 170th St E
22 N/A
23 Bituminous trail on north side of County Road 42 / 140th St NW between
Mystic Lake Drive and McKenna Road NW
24 Bituminous trails around Pike Lake (some planned with new development,
other segments need to be coordinated with SMSC. To include pedestrian
crossing across Eagle Creek Ave NE
25 Bituminous trail connecting Pike Lake trails east to Crest Ave NE
26 Bituminous trail along Crest Ave NE from CR 42 north to city limits
27 Future bituminous trail along Fountain Hills Drive NE from existing trail west
to Eagle Creek Ave NE when future development occurs
28 Bituminous trail connections between existing gaps – between Bluebird
Trail NE, to Rolling Oaks Circle NE into Trillium development
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 316
Trail
Segment
Trail Description
29 Planned bituminous trail starting at Carriage Hills Pkwy NE by Carriage
Hills Park going south to connect to Manitou Rd NE
30 Concrete walk along Fremont Ave NW from CR 82 / 154th St NW south to
existing walk end at the intersection of Fremont and Northwood Rd NW
31 Concrete sidewalk along Fairlawn Shores Trail SE from Fish Point Road
north to Indian Ridge Circle SE
32 Concrete walks along Lyons Ave SE between Franklin Trail SE south to
The Ponds trail south of Hillcrest St SE and concrete sidewalk connection
along Dublin Rd SE to Blind Lake Trail SE to connect to existing walk
33 Bituminous trail from The Ponds along 170th ST SE to Toronto Ave SE
34 Planned bituminous trail on north side and concrete walk on south side of
Fish Point Rd timed with road construction extension
35 Concrete walk and ped ramp at the corner of Adelmann St SE and
Cottonwood Lane SE to align with existing ped ramp and connect to
existing concrete walk. Bituminous trail extension from Deerfield
neighborhood to connect to Adelmann St SE trails and walks. Easements
and boardwalks may be necessary along certain sections.
36 Potential regional trail route along the south side of Eagle Creek Ave that
would connect up to the planned Lake Marion Greenway Trail at Ritter
Farm Park and would also connect to Murphy Hanrehan
37 Potential for neighboring community trail connections around Markley Lake
38 Potential bituminous trail from existing trail along Northwoood Rd NW
through Spring Lake Regional Park to connect up to other trail systems
39 Proposed regional trail connection along 154th St W
40 Concrete walks along Elm Ave SW by Willows Park / 170th St SW going
north to Willow Beach Trail then following Willow Beach Trail SW east to
connect to existing walk/trail. Concrete sidewalk along Willow Ln SW from
Priorwood Lane SW south to walk at Willowwood St SW
41 Concrete walk along Fairlawn Ave/ Sunset Trail SW between Langford Blvd
north and 170th St SW (CR 12) and a bituminous trail or concrete walk
along the south side of Balsam St SW from Sunset Trail SW to the existing
trail at the end of Balsam St SW
42 Bituminous trail along 180th St E from Langford Blvd, east and turning onto
Panama Lane to connect to Panama Ave (CR 23) as future road
improvement / expansion project
a Potential pedestrian crossing improvement at Hwy 13 and Fish Point road if
additional studies show that further improvements are necessary
b Potential pedestrian crossing improvement at Fish Point Rd crossing by
Cardinal Ridge Trail SE if additional studies show that improvements such
as rapid flashing light is necessary
c Potential pedestrian crossing on Eagle Creek Ave SE (CR 21) at Adelmann
St SE where pedestrians cross to get to Credit River Rd SE trail
d Install pedestrian ramps on both sides of Fish Point Road and add
crosswalk where trails align
e Pedestrian crossing improvement at County Road 82 / 154th St W and
Howard Lake Road / Mystic Lake
P1 Potential pedestrian bridge over Hwy 13 – refer to Trail Gap Analysis in
Appendix
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 317
Trail
Segment
Trail Description
P2 Potential pedestrian bridge over canal between Raymond Park and South
Shore Drive
P3 Future improved vehicular bridge to account for on-street bike lane and
bituminous trails / concrete walks across bridge
Maintenance & Operations
A routine maintenance plan is critical to ensuring safety and comfort for users of trails
and other bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Cracks, potholes, and similar surface
issues not only create a less enjoyable experience, they can be safety hazards.
Longitudinal cracks large enough for a bicycle tire are just one example of a
maintenance issue that could result in a serious injury. Regularly-schedule inspection
and preventative maintenance programs can help identify and correct these issues
before they create safety risks.
Debris is also a concern on trails. Trails located in wooded areas or near water bodies
are especially prone to accumulation of leaves, mud, and other materials that can create
hazards for trail users. Establishing a schedule for trail sweeping and other basic
maintenance can help minimize these issues and create a safer and more enjoyable
experience for users. Performing a trail maintenance audit can help identify problem
areas (such as a low-lying area with drainage issues) that should receive more frequent
and targeted attention. Properly maintaining existing facilities also shows the city’s
commitment to investing in and supporting walking and biking.
Maintenance Recommendations:
• Utilize sustainable practices to protect the public investment and ensure the
safety and quality of trails through long-term management.
• Continue replacing curb ramps to comply with ADA requirements: The City
should identify and replace necessary curb ramps to bring them into compliance
with ADA design requirements to improve accessibility for all users.
• Maintain vegetation to ensure horizontal and vertical clearances on all trails.
• Sweep trails annually.
• Repaint crosswalks annually so that crosswalks are in good condition throughout
the summer and fall.
The City of Prior Lake recently undertook an evaluation of the existing trail conditions in
order to prioritize improvements and maintenance needs.
Supporting Facilities
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 5: Trail System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 318
Providing bicycle repair stations, places to rest, shade opportunities, restroom facilities,
drinking water/ fountains, wayfinding maps/signage, and other supporting facilities at
trailheads and along routes will be key to maintaining a good recreational experience.
Wayfinding & Interpretive Signage
A clear wayfinding signage program should be implemented throughout the community
that provides guidance to parks, trails and other points of interest in the community. This
is particularly important along routes that are disjointed, or have gaps in them, in order to
direct users where to connect back with a trail route, and to direct people to sites that are
difficult to find.
Wayfinding can include kiosks, individual signs, enhancements to street signs, or they
can also be markers identifying specific routes. The wayfinding signage program should
have a clear branding and design theme in order to enhance the sense of place in the
community that is consistent with an interpretive signage program that would illustrate
points of interest, cultural destinations and historical elements.
Appropriate signage is important for maintaining safety but is also key to the user
experience. Trail users unfamiliar with an area rely on signs and landmarks to find their
destination and a signage program with a clear hierarchy of design will effectively help
users navigate their way through the community and to their destinations.
.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 319
6.1 Overview
The City of Prior Lake Vision System Plan, as described in previous sections, establishes
the vision for the city with a list of goals, recommendations and priorities to develop a
quality system meeting the needs of the community.
The extent to which this plan will be implemented depends upon taking action on this
commitment. This section establishes an overall guide for the implementation process with
initial baseline priorities which should continue to be evaluated and adjusted to remain in
line with community sentiment and funding mechanisms available.
Strong public support and commitment by the city will be necessary to implement the
vision of this plan. The plan is ambitious, yet realistic if funding mechanisms and a strong
action plan are implemented and adhered to. It will require strong political leadership and
a willingness to use new approaches to management, development and investment in
order to leverage financial resources.
6
Implementation Plan
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 320
6.2 Implementation Approach
A. Strategic Approach
The vast majority of the parks were initially developed 15 to 20 years ago, and in some
cases, even longer. Since that time there has been a strong maintenance plan that has
been keeping the parks functioning, safe and attractive, but there has been little
investment dedicated to significant improvements and redevelopment of the parks.
The other factor to consider is that many parks were all initially developed within similar
time frames when development was rapidly expanding the city, so they are all reaching
the end of their useful life span at the same time. As the park assessments indicate, many
parks are still in a fair condition, but many are rapidly approaching the time when they will
fail and will need to be completely replaced.
Trails have been implemented through new housing developments and street construction
projects over time, and those too are in need of more significant improvements and
replacement.
While the city does not have the necessary funding mechanisms in place to fully implement
the recommendations of this plan, strategic partnerships and seeking opportunities will be
key considerations moving forward to make the best use of the dollars available.
An important consideration in developing an implementation strategy is that the
opportunities to enhance the system are substantial and diverse. This will require setting
priorities that respond to realistic limitations of resources.
The temptation to spread investment dollars too thinly across the entire system is also a
major implementation consideration. Many cities feel the strategy to make small
improvements across an entire system is beneficial because it gives something to
everyone, but this strategy often falls short in that the investments made have little effect
on the public’s perception that the overall quality of the park and trail system has improved.
This ultimately will leave residents with sense of unmet expectations and can result in a
decrease in the perceived value of the system and feel that the value of their tax dollars
has been wasted.
By focusing on raising the level of service through strategic and prioritized investments
that are more significant and noticeable, the improvements will be much more impactful.
Residents will feel that their tax dollar are being used wisely to their benefit and will be
much more likely to continue to support ongoing efforts for funding future improvements.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 321
Sustainability
A sustainable system threshold relates to the point to which the community is willing to
support implementing the system plan to receive a desired level of benefits.
To sustain a desirable level of service, the implementation strategy must take into account
the long-term commitments required beyond the initial development costs. This includes
the routine costs for operations and maintenance and replacement or full redevelopment
once the park or trail has reached the end of its useful life.
Given the major implications to long-term funding, the city’s focus should be on providing
a level of service that can be indefinitely sustained by allocating ongoing funding for parks
and trails beyond standard operations and maintenance.
With 58 parks in the system, the city should ultimately be funding complete redevelopment
of 2 to 3 parks per year in order to replace the parks in line with their estimated lifespan of
approximately 20 years, with certain structures and buildings having longer lifespans.
Lacking this type of investment in parks previously, the city is at a point where very
significant investments will need to take place just to get the system back up to a more
suitable and sustainable level moving forward.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 322
Prioritization Strategy
Knowing that the realities of significant investments to implement all of the system plan
recommendations will be unlikely, the city will need to prioritize strategic system initiatives.
The following table outlines a set of criteria as the basis for the prioritization process. The
criteria are based on factors that influence the demand for parks, trails and recreation and
are broad enough to consider the important factors, yet limited enough to be manageable
for decision makers to gain consensus and take action.
Evaluation Criteria General Description
Community Demand Action is warranted due to identified community demand based on
need assessment studies and defined trends
Recreation Program
Need
Action is warranted based on current and projected city and local
associations’ recreation program facility demands
Redevelopment /
Upgrading
Action is warranted due to the following factors:
• Unsafe conditions / hazard / poor quality
• Old and at the end of its lifecycle
• Ineffective at servicing current needs
Population Density
Factors
Action is warranted to service the needs of a specific area based on:
• Current and projected population density
• Current and projected population and demographic profiles
Funding Availability Action is warranted due to:
• Funding availability for specific use
• Partnership or funding opportunity for specific development
Preservation of Natural
Resources
Action is warranted due to:
• Protection of significant natural resources
• Lands for climate mitigation / flood control / stormwater
The strategy for implementing the system plan and establishing priorities is underpinned
by two primary objectives:
1. Developing a balanced system that offers multiple community values.
2. Taking advantage of opportunities as they arise.
The following identifies further implementation strategies and funding options for
consideration.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 323
6.3 Implementation Priorities
A. System Plan Recommendations & Priorities
It is currently not known if the community would support a referendum, but even if there
was support, the funding would likely not be enough to make significant improvements
as recommended in this plan, especially considering the significant costs for community
park developments / redevelopments. The city should identify a yearly budget for
general funding to be attributed to the park improvements.
The following strategy is recommended for implementing recommendations for the park
system.
1. Identify a dedicated staff person to manage the park, trail and recreation system:
This person would be responsible for the management of the parks, trails and
recreation system and staff, budget for improvements, seek partnerships and
opportunities, and act as a community liaison.
2. Establish an initial 5-year improvement program: This establishes priorities for
park and trail developments, redevelopment and improvements.
3. Prepare a master plan for high priority parks: This should involve the community
stakeholders and include a cost estimate and listing of priorities within each park
site.
4. Implement improvements: Undertake initial park and trail improvements projects
consistent with the priorities and funding available.
5. Community awareness: Implement an awareness program to identify upcoming
projects and promote the investments that the city is implementing.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 324
Park Priorities
Based on community sentiment, the park improvement priorities are as follows:
1. Prioritize community park improvements and developments as they serve the
greater community and can generate revenue to be reinvested into the parks.
2. Prioritize the improvement of key neighborhood parks in each neighborhood
service area that provide the greatest benefit to those within a 1/2 mile radius in
terms of level of development, ability to program and having high populations of
children present.
3. Reduce redundancies in the system by providing unique, complementary and
meaningful park experiences.
4. Identify any regionally significant parks. Lakefront Park may be suited for regional
significance which can improve grant funding opportunities if successful.
The following tables outline the costs and priorities for the recommendations.
Community Parks
Priority Level Park Estimate
High Lakefront Park $4 - $6 M
Sand Point Beach $5 - $8 M
Spring Lake Park $814,050
Watzl’s Beach $300,000 - $3 M
Subtotal: $10.1 – $17.8 M
Medium Pike Lake Park $800,000 - $2 M
Thomas Ryan Memorial $1.5 - $2.5 M
Memorial Park $827,550
The Ponds TBD
Future Community Park TBD
Subtotal: $3.1 – $5.3 M
Grand Total:
$13.2 - $23.1 M
Neighborhood & Natural Parks
Priority Level Park Estimate
High Deerfield $305,100
Glynwater $502,200
Island View $372,600
Jeffers Pond $1,005,750
Sunset Hills Park $476,550
Wilderness Pond $341,550
Subtotal: $3,003,750
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 325
Medium Boudins $204,500
Cardinal Ridge (Markley) $456,300
Carriage HIlls $456,300
Green Oaks $517,050
Indian Ridge $314,550
Knob Hill $468,450
Meadow View $172,800
Oakland Beach $318,600
Raspberry Ridge $548,775
Raymond $540,000
Wilds $645,300
Willows $421,200
Subtotal: $5,063,825
Low/Deferred Cardinal Ridge (Lawn) $185,000
Crystal Lake $60,750
Eagle Brook $12,000
Enclave at Cleary $46,000
Fairview Heights $62,100
Fish Point $229,500
Grainwood Crossing $227,750
Haas Lake $1,370,500
Heritage $247,050
Hickory Shores $730,350
Horkey at Shepherds $602,100
Howard Lake $522,450
Jeffers Pond Preserve $1,512,000
North Shore Oaks $-0-
Northwood $121,500
Northwood Meadows $8,000
Raspberry Woods $87,700
Rice Lake $83,700
Rotary Gateway $-0-
Sand Point Park $560,250
South Shore $204,500
Stonebriar $20,000
Timbercrest $394,200
Westbury Ponds $634,500
Whitetail Island $-0-
Wilds North $58,000
Woodridge $373,950
Woods at the Wilds $15,000
Woodview $-0-
Subtotal: $8,368,850
Grand Total:
$16,436,425
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 326
Trail Priorities
Based on community sentiment, the trail improvement priorities are as follows:
1. Prioritize primary trail connections (fill in gaps) and those that can be
implemented with road improvement projects or with joint partnerships.
2. Beyond high priority gaps, prioritize trail improvements (resurfacing, seal-coating
and replacement) over new trail development. This includes boardwalks and
pedestrian bridges along the trail routes that are also in need of replacement.
The following tables outline the potential costs for high priority gap connections.
Trail
Segment Trail Description
Trail
Length
(miles)
Cost
1 Bituminous trail on north side of Hwy 13
Egan Dr to Boudin Street SE and
Rustic Rd SE to Oakland Beach Ave SE
0.64 $689,700
1 Section of Segment #1 to include boardwalk
and retaining walls
0.18 $2,100,000
2 Bituminous trail on north side of Hwy 13
150th St SE to Fish Point Road
0.79 $881,000
3 Bituminous trail on north side of Hwy 13
Fish Point Road to Eagle Creek Ave (CSAH
21)
1.30 $5,609,900
4 Pedestrian Bridge A along 160th St SE (CSAH
44) from St. Paul Ave to Main Ave South
0.10 $2,177,200
5 Bituminous trail on North side of Hwy 13 from
Eagle Creek Ave SE (CSAH 21) to Anna Trail
SE
0.37 $1,293,500
6 Bituminous trail between Eagle Creek Ave SE
(CSAH 21) and Credit River Rd from
Adelmann St (trail stops here currently) SE to
Revere Way intersection and
A concrete sidewalk from Markley Ct SE to
Credit River Road
0.65 $405,200
7 Bituminous trail on north side of Eagle Creek
Ave SE (CSAH 21) from Revere Way to
Texas Ave (CR 27)
1.03 $674,900
8 Bituminous trail on west side of Revere Way
from Eagle Creek Ave SE (CSAH 21) to 180th
St E and
Bituminous trail on north side of 180th St E
from Revere Way to existing trail
1.24 $2,134,300
9 Bituminous trail along north side of 180th St E
to Mushtown Rd and
Bituminous trail along west / south side of
Mushtown Road from 180th St E to trail at
Lone Pine Ct
0.61 $421,000
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 327
Trail
Segment Trail Description
Trail
Length
(miles)
Cost
10 Bituminous trail along north side of Hwy 13
from Stonebriar Cir SW to Fairlawn Ave
(CSAH 81)
0.86 $2,635,900
11 Bituminous trail along north side of Hwy 13
from Fairlawn Ave (CSAH 81) to Vergus Ave
1.12 $2,947,300
12 Bituminous trail along north side of Hwy 13
from Vergus Ave to Marschall Rd (CR 17)
0.99 $2,302,600
13 Regional Trail Route: Bituminous trail along
Marschall Rd (CR 17) from Country Trail E to
city limits
0.81 $885,800
14 Regional Trail Route: Bituminous trail along
Marschall Rd (CR 17) from city limits to 170th
St E (CR 12)
0.39 $667,700
15 Concrete sidewalk along north side of Cougar
Path NW between existing trail segments and
Bituminous trail on north side of 140th St NW
(CR 42) from Shepherd’s Path NW to Eagle
Creek Ave NE (CSAH 21)
0.50 $315,200
16 Concrete sidewalks along Raspberry Ridge
Rd NE, following along Hidden Pond Trl SE
and also along Appaloosa Trl NE
0.28 $381,000
Total: $26,522,200
B. Funding Options
The availability of funding to implement the system plan will have a direct impact on the
level of improvements and development that can be undertaken.
Local Level
The Park Dedication Fund provides funding for parks as long as community development
continues to occur. Any controls imposed on the extent or rate of development allowed
within the city will limit the revenue generated under this fund. In cases where land is taken
in lieu of fees, the fund balance for park development is further reduced. This reality
underscores the need for the city to regularly review its park dedication policy relative to
park needs and land values while remaining fair and in general alignment with similar
communities.
Park dedication policies should also be reviewed to ensure consistency to meeting the
actual needs of the city in terms of the type of land dedicated, as outlined in the Park
System chapter. The following is an overview comparison of the current park dedication
ordinance for Prior Lake in comparison to similar or adjacent cities. Overall, Prior
Lake is similar in terms of land dedication percentages and cash-in-lieu amounts for
residential development though a differing multifamily cash-in-lieu amount was not
established. Prior Lake ranks lowest for cash-in-lieu amount for commercial or industrial
developments, in some cases almost half as much as other cities.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 328
City Residential
Land
Dedication /
Cash-in-Lieu
Multifamily
(Cas-in-Lieu)
Trail Dedication
Commercial
Industrial Land
Dedication /
Cash-in-Lieu
Prior Lake 10% / $3,750
per unit
$3,570 per unit None 10% / $6,400 per
acre
Chanhassen 10% / $5,800
per unit
$3,800 per unit Trail donation,
easement,
construction or
cash in lieu.
10% / $12,500 per
acre
Chaska 10% / $3,845
per unit
$1,768 per unit $261-$427 per
residential unit or
$1,768 per acre of
commercial or
industrial
7-10% / $11,128
per acre
Savage 10% / $3,842
per unit
$3,842 per unit None 7% / $8,937 per
acre
Shakopee 10% / $5,340
per unit
$2,225-$4,450
per unit
Trail donation,
easement,
construction or
cash in lieu.
10% / $9,500 per
acre
Burnsville Population
formula /
$3,000 per unit
$3,000 per unit
(varies based on
land value)
None 5% / $9,250 per
acre (varies based
on land value)
Even with periodic adjustments to the park dedication fees, the fees alone will not be
adequate to fund the system plan to an optimal level. When a city is dedicated lands, they
then need to fund the actual development which for a standard neighborhood park usually
ranges between $400,000 - $600,000. If the city receives funds in lieu of lands, it is
generally not enough to fully develop a new neighborhood park so phasing of park
development occurs. The phasing of development can also lead to dissatisfaction in the
system when it can take anywhere from 5 to 10 years to fully develop a park and at that
time, many of the facilities are in need of repair. New residents in particular get very
frustrated when the new park they were promised is finished after their kids have become
teenagers.
Realistically, residents will have equal responsibility to bear the costs of developing or
improving the system through local taxes. Practically, the CIP will have to be relied upon
to a greater extent for funding portions of the system plan.
The city also has the option of undertaking a local referendum to provide initial capital for
system improvements, however this varies in terms of success and cannot be relied upon
as the only mechanism for making system plan improvements.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 329
Additional mechanisms for funding exist, though to varying success and the willingness
for a city to seek out these mechanisms. The following table provides a brief overview of
various types of funding sources typically available to local governments.
Funding Source General Description
Cost Share
Bonding General obligations bond and revenue bonds provide
funding for new development and redevelopment /
improvements.
N/A
Federal
Transportation Funds
The Federal Government allocates monies each year
for alternative forms of transportation, which includes
bicycle trails that focus on transportation.
State Aid Funds Generally used for pedestrian and bicycle
improvements on state aid roadways.
LCCMR, Legacy
Fund, and Similar
Grants
The State of Minnesota annually allocates funds for
park acquisition and development projects which meet
recreational needs identified by the State
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. The Legacy
Amendment Fund has emerged as a legitimate
potential funding source for projects of regional or
state-wide significance.
DNR Outdoor
Recreation Grant
Funds to acquire parkland or develop / redevelop
outdoor facilities. Cities, counties, townships, and tribal
governments are eligible.
Grants can average from $35,000 - $65,000 and up to
$100,000.
50%
Historical and
Cultural Heritage
Grants
Supports history programs and projects, and significant
historical and cultural resources, interpretive programs,
etc. Small grants under $10,000 are awarded 4x per
year and grants over $10,000 are awarded 1x per year.
0%
MRPF New Initiative
Grant Program
Must be a member of the MRPF and must have a
sponsoring government agency or non-profit
organization. Meant to allow agencies to try new
programs that have a state-wide impact and may not
be in their budget allocations.
Maximum $4,000
50%
Fees and Enterprise
Funds
Minnesota statute allows cities to prescribe and provide
for the allocation of fees for the use of any city park or
other unit of the city park system, facilities, rental fees,
etc. Generally limited funds.
Utility and Franchise
Fees
Franchise fees are included on the monthly bill that
customers receive from utilities. The fee can be a flat
amount or a percentage of the monthly bill.
Implemented through ordinance.
Donations, Liquor
and Gambling
Donations relates to cash donations, gifts,
volunteerism, and professional services donated to the
park for planning, acquisition, or development
purposes. Specified proceeds from gambling and liquor
sales are dedicated to parks and trails.
NRPA & Trust for
Public Lands
Provides planning grants and technical assistance to
help cities improve access to high quality parks within a
10-minute walk
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 6: Implementation Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 330
Partnerships
Strong partnerships will be necessary to help supplement funding and promote further
investment into the system improvements. It can also identify project champions and
funding opportunities. Some identified partners include:
1. Prior Lake-Savage School District: shared use, funding and maintenance
opportunities of school sites and parks to benefit programming.
2. Athletic Associations: partnerships for funding and maintenance of athletic fields,
programs and future developments.
3. SMSC: partnerships for funding and securing lands for trails, connectivity,
programming, natural resource management, athletics, and fitness.
4. Business Community: potential sponsors and business enterprises in parks.
5. Scott County: partnerships for trail systems, wayfinding and outdoor recreation.
6. State of Minnesota DNR: grants for outdoor recreation and sometimes will
provide fishing piers and educational components.
7. Watershed District: natural resources and habitats, sometimes will be partners
for boardwalks and educational components.
8. MnDOT: trail and pedestrian systems timed with road improvement projects.
9. Adjacent Townships: future park developments, potential athletic complex, trail
systems, etc.
Although there are numerous funding and partnerships available, they can only be
counted on for supplementing local sources. Ultimately it will be up to the local citizens to
decide the value that they put on the parks, trails and recreation in the community and
support funding them accordingly.