HomeMy WebLinkAbout10 - Parks Comprehensive Plan
MISSIOO srATEMENl'
DRAFT
It is the mission of the Prior Lake Parks and Recreation Department to pr0\7ide
facilities and prograns of wholesane leisure-time activities to as many residents as
possible, and to help them gain satisfaction, joy, and benefit fran a wide variety of
recreational experiences. Further, it is hoped that the activities offered to the
residents of our corrm.mity can pr0\7ide an opportunity to inprove their skills, to
develop and refine appreciation, and form new friendships. The department is
determined that you will carry eMay something IOOre than just the mE!!'OOries of the
program. . .. rather a WIIJLE'S:ME AND MEANnQ'UL LElroRFr-TIME fXPERIElO.
.CI.'1Y CXXOCIL
Lee Andren Mayor
!bug Larson Council
John Fitzgerald Council
Gene White Council
Carol Scott Council
reve Unmacht City Manager
PARKS MNIscm <ntMI'ITEE
Art Schoot, Clair
Doug Berens
Bill Hansen
Kathy Snith
Tony Anderson
Mike Babcock
Patrick Heaney
Kathe Abrans
Kate Greden
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IEPAR'1Mml' grAFF
Bill Mangan
Al Friedges
Fiona Keel
Nancy McGill
Judy Pint
Bruce Clobes
Rob Boeckman
Charles Tooker
Director
Park Superv.
prog. 5\Jec.
Secretary
Secretary
P.M. II
P.M. II
Consul tant
Mission Statement
Goals and Cbjectives
Analysis of Park System
Trail System
Water Access
Natural Features
Storm Water Management Ponds
Historical Farm
Brooksville Hills Park
Fish Point Park
Island View Park
Lakefront Park
tcrth Shore Oaks Park
'lbePooo
Rasp,erry Ridge Park
Rasp,erry Woods Park
Sand Point Park
Sand Point Beach Park
Sunset Hills Park
l'b>dview Park
Policies
Facilities Key
TABLE OF <DNrENl'S
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19
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23
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29
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33
35
37
39
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OON:,S AND OOJECI'IVES OF PARK ~SIVE PLAN
As with any planning document, the City of Prior Lake's Park Cooprehensive Plan will
function as the planning guide for the future of the Prior Lake Parks and Recreation
Department. When carpleted, this document will take us well into the 2lst century in
teDIB of planning for the future needs of our COITI1I.U1i.ty. In order to be an effective
planning tool, the Park Cooprehensive Plan needs to address the specific goals and
oojectives that nust be considered. While these goals are intended to be broad in
scope, they nust be assessed annually so that they can be adapted to a changing
envirorunent. These goals DUSt also be flexible enough so that they can adapt to
citizen's needs as well. The following goals need to be incorporated into the Park
Cooprehensive Plan if, indeed, it is to be effective.
l. ALL Ft1lURE LAND DEDICATIONS AND LAND AOOUISITIONS MUS!' MEET ACREAGE REXXJIREMENTS
AS ESTABLISHED BY THE NATIONAL ROCRFATION AND PARKS ASOOCIATION.
'lbe National Recreation and Parks Association has determined established guidelines
for Parks and Open Space. When establishing acreage of future park acquisition, the
fOllowing guidelines should be used:
MINI-PARK- 'Ibis type of park is generally less than an acre in size serving the
population within a 1/4 mile radius. These parks are oriented to walk-in
use within neighborhoods.
NEIGHOORIIXD PARKS-This is a parcel that is 5-10 acres in size serving the
residents within a 1/2 mile radius. Ideally, the location of the park is in
the center of the neiglix>rhood. Walk-in traffic is favored, however,
automobiles may also be involved.
CXJoMUNI'1'Y PARKS-These park sites are generally 10+ acres in size and tend to
serve 3 to 5 neighborhoods within a camunity. A camunity park is normally
accessed by automobile.
LINEAR PARKS-These parks areas are trailways or corridors using abandoned
railroad rights-of-way or utility easements. Linear Parks usually link
neiglix>rOOocls with other cararunity facilities including camunity parks and
tend to be nultiple use facilities.
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SPECIAL USE FACILITIES-These types of recreation areas are generally reserved
with single uses in mind. Exanples of these facilities include ice arenas,
golf courses, outdoor swirrming pools, and other conmunity facilities.
These kinds of facilities are generally used by entire conmunities and are
driven to.
CDNSERVATION AND ENV'IRCDtEm'AL AREAS-'lbese kind of facilities are generally of a
specialist nature involving preservation and natural resource conservation.
They are considered community facilities and are driven to.
2. ALL FU'lURE LAR> ACQUIRED FOR PARK PURFOSES SIOJLD BE STABLE, USABLE LAND (VALUED
AT 100%), .mJ.....ESS SUI> LAND IS ro BE USED AS A <DNSER\TATION WE'1LAND OR C1lHER NA'lURAL
AMENITY. FOR N:rIVE RFX:REATION OPEN SPACE, STABLE, USl\BLE LAND SHALL BE DEDlCATID.
In the past, the City of Prior Lake has been offered unstable, unbuildable land by
developers in order to satisfy the park dedication requirement. In the future, all
lands dedicated for open space should be stable, buildable land.
3. THE CI'lY CF PRIOR LAKE PARKS AND REX:RFATION DEPAR'!lo1ENI' SHALL DE.VELOP PARK AREN3
IN 9JCH A MANNER SO AS ro KEEP MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION CF FACILITIES AT A MINDDt.
With the ever increasing demand for City services, maintenance and operation of the
parks physical plant should strive to be as maintenance free as possible. Use of
materials, design of structures and landscape, building material used, and landscape
materials should all be designed into the system with future maintenance in mind.
With a limited budget and personnel, maintenance efforts can focus on those kinds of
facilities that require higher maintenance such as turf management, forestry, and
athletic facilities.
4. THE BASIS CF ANY PARK SYSTEM IS HEAL'llIY TREES AND TURF. THEREFORE, THE PRIOR
LAKE PARKS AND RFX:REATION DEPAR'lMENl' SHALL INSl'I'lUTE AN ANRJAL '1URF MANN.;DtENT
PROORAM AS WELL AS FSl'ABLISH A CI'lY NURSERY 'ID PROlInE vmETATION 'l'HIUX;RlJT THE
SYS'lDt.
'Ibree years ago, the Parks Maintenance Division established a greenhouse for the
purposes of plant propagation. Since that time, there have been approxinately 5000
plants that have been raised and used within the park system at a substantial savings
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to the City of Prior Lake. This program rust continue in order to maintain the
quality and quantity of plant material necessary for the park system. As part of
this goal, the Parks and Recreation DepartJrent shall work toward being designated a
TREE CITY, U~ camunity, by 1991, as established by the federal govermnent.
5. THE CI'lY (R PRIOR LAKE PARKS AND REX:RFATION DEPAR'!lt1ENl' SHALL PRJIIDE ARFAS AND
FACILITIES WITHIN THE PAm< SYS'lDt THAT ARE HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE '10 CDU'LY WITH
FEDERAL REGULATIONS.
By Federal Law, pli>lic facilities nust be accessible to the handicapped. While this
law does not require that sll facilities must be accessible, the Parks and
Recreation Department will continue to keep these regulations in mind when designing
park areas.
6. ALL PARKS AND RECRFATION AREAS AND FACILITIES WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE ro THE
PUBLIC IN A tm-DISCRIMlNATE MANNER. DISCRIMINATION 00 THE BASIS CF AGE, CREED,
RACE, smc, OR NATIONAL ORIGIN WILL tUl' 'f(LERATED.
'nle City of Prior Lake park system is available to any resident of the city on a
first come-first served basis. It shall not be the practice of this Department to
discriminate against any person based on age, race, creed, color, sex, or national
origin. Those facilities that are funded with State or Federal grant lOOnies are
available on a non-discriminate basis to any person.
7. ALL PARK AREAS AND FACILITIES WITHIN THE ENl'IRE PARK SYSTflti SHALL BE MAINTAINED
00 AS 'ID P10TIDE A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE FOR THE PAm< USER.
Park Maintenance standards shall be kept at a high level so as to minimize OOII'plaints
and provide a positive image of the users of the park system. &lb-standard
maintenance practices leaves a user with a negative experience in addition to
exposing the Department to liability.
8. ALL PARK ACCESSES THAT ARE IESIGNID FOR IN;RESS AND EX;RESS IN'ID PARK AREAS SHALL
BE DESIGNED AND EN;INNEERED WI'm USER SAFE'lY AS THE HIGHFSl' PRIORITY.
It is the intent of the Parks and Recreation Department to provide clean, safe, and
well identified accesses to any and all of our parks users. In order to provide a
positive experience for park users, a safe access design is essential.
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9. THE PRIOR LAKE PARKS AND RFX:RFATION DEPAR'lMENl' SHALL PLAN <DOPERATIVELY AND
JOIN'ILY, WHERE FOSSIBLE, WI'lH ISO. 1719 IN THE AREAS <F PROORAMS, FACILITIES, AND
MAINTmANCE OF PUBLIC FACILITIES.
It is the intent of the Parks and Recreation Deparbnent to work with ISO 1719 in the
planning and maintenance of joint facilities and programs. 'Ibrough cooperation on
both entities, tax dollars can be maximized without duplication. This goal confirms
the Prior Lake 2000 Report which encourages cooperation and joint facilities.
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ANALYSIS CF EXISTIN:; PARK SYS'l'F}t
'lbe parks in Prior Lake have come a long way since the initial bond issue was
approved by voters to acquire Lakefront Park in 1974. The developed neighborhood
parks are extremely iIrportant to the success of the surrtner recreation program. 'Ibe
Pond has provided an opportunity to witness the conversion of a cornfield into a full
scale carm.mity recreation complex within 3 years, a relatively short period of time
by park developnent standards.
'lbere are four major concerns that need to be addressed while there is time and
opportunity to make an impact. The first is a need to create a complete hiking,
biking, and cross-county trail system to link various plblic open space and activity
areas. '1l1e second is a need for a JOOre assertive position with regard to platting
undeveloped land. Staff needs to evaluate developer proposals and determine which
land forns should be included within parks. '1l1e third concern is the developnent of
Lakefront Corrmmity Park. There needs to be extensive developnent of this beautiful
park and then make the public eMare that the park exists. Then last, and likely ITDst
inportant of the four, is to salvage undeveloped land for open space use.
A prime exanple of visionary leadership is the City of Minneapolis in that the City
park system was organized before many people arrived. After being hired by the City,
'D1eodore Wirth developed a concept, which largely was followed, that all lake and
river frontage should be publicly controlled and that each lake frontage should
contain recreation space large enough to acCOl11OOdate a variety of activity. In
addition, all the major recreation spaces were linked by a greeri>elt system which
allows pedestrian access without autanobile conflict throughout much of the City.
Imagine the delight of migrants to this area when they recognized that all of the
major natural features were available to everyone regardless of family background or
income. Had our founding fathers of Prior Lake had similar visionary priorities,
current residents could enjoy biking and hiking trails surrounding the principal
lakes and linked with major camunity features such as schools, parks, and retail
areas.
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Fran time to time, camunity decision makers recognized the fact that only a small
percentage of the City residents have direct access to the major natural resources in
northern Scott County. High points in local park developnent history were the
decisions to create both Lakefront Park and Sand Point Beach. 'Ibey prOl7ided
opportunities for swinming and boating not previously available. If the disparity
that exists between lakeshore dwellers and practically everyone else regarding the
use of these lakes is to become less severe, the City RUst be ready to add lake
frontage to the park system when opportunities are presented and to create
opportunities if they are not. By way of exanple, Sand Point Beach was augmented in
size through the Planned Unit Development section of the City's Subdivision
Ordinance. Another exanple would be the Mcn:>nald lot on County lbad 21. '!he City
purchased this lot in 1990 to be used as a beautiful park to overlook the lake at
this location. This area will also serve as a rest area for hikers and bikers alon:J
the trail corridor of C.R. 21. The criteria for evaluating undeveloped land should
praoote the interests of all the people and particularly those who will be living
here one hundred or IOOre years frOOl now.
Another concern has been the lower standards of previous governing bodies of the city
to require usable recreation space as the only land that will satisfy park dedication
standards in the Subdivision Ordinance. All too frequently, park land has been
accepted that IOOre appropriately should have been considered a poooing area as
defined in the storm Water Management Plan. The ponding areas do belong within the
City's open space system, but not as part of the active recreation space demanded by
the Subdivision Ordinance. Similarly, steep slope areas and marshes are considered
to be valuable open space that likely belong in the parks system, whereas they never
would be accepted as part of the park land required by the Subdivision Ordinance.
'lbe ten percent dedication requirement is only legitimate if the property can be
actively used.
Access to the parks and land-form integrity appear to be additional problems.
Ponding areas and land which is difficult to develop because of topography or
boundary configuration has led to the creation of parks that sanetimes have very
little street frontage. 'lbe principal access to one neighborhood park is prOl7ided by
ten foot wide walks between houses. 'lbe recreation experience is diminished for
people in the park as well as for adjoining landowners. Extensive street frontage
also tends to identify the parks as public open space available to everyone rather
than as baCkyards for the housing that adjoins these parks. Several of the park
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boundaries appear to be arbitrarily drCMn at best. 'lbpographic features are often
divided rather than used to benefit either the park or adjoining residential use.
Self contained lOOunds will provide JOOre variety and interest within parks than if
shared with adjoining residential property. In this particular problem area, a half
ridge line is not better than none at all. There rust be a better way to determine
park boundaries than dedicating to the City whatever land remains after meeting the
minil1l.U'll lot size of the City in the platting process. Much of the neighborhood park
inventory appears to have been created in this fashion and many of the parks will not
be catq;>lete until key parcels as noted are added.
A recent criticism of Lakefront Park has surfaced regarding the difficulty of using
the site because of its remote location. The park has very little lakeshore relative
to its size and includes a substantial area of steep slopes, which separates JOOst of
the park from the lake. The original developnent concept identified separate areas
for active and passive recreational activity and the plan shows very little
penetration of the passive or natural areas by roads. The idea was to separate
people fran their autanobiles quickly after entering the park so that the natural
features are experienced while biking, jogging, skiing or walking. 'Ibe concept was
successful, but there appears to be relatively few residents who actually use the
park as originally developed. '!he current plan needs to generate discussion to
determine how much change will be appropriate.
It is noted that the Cooq>rehensi ve Land Use Map adopted in 1982 shows that the Kop
Farm is intended as part of the public open space system available to residents of
Prior Lake. The property is situated directly west of the intersection of Main
Street and CoWlty Road 44 and could provide the best access to the active recreation
areas of Lakefront Park. In the long view, it is likely that this park will attract
IOOre general use when an entrance is built that is IOOre obvious to residents
particularly if it lines up with the existing right-of-way for County Hoad 44. While
the need for better access is app:lrent, the property is not likely to be available
for several years. <:ne possibility to explore would be for the City and the owner to
consider a life estate for the Kop family after purchase by the City. This would
allow the current residents a place to live as long as they wish to stay and to
renDVe uncertainty for the City about dealing with subsequent owners. The only
exception to use rights by the family would be the pole barn, which is in the best
alignment for the park entrance.
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Another major liability of the existing park system is that it appears to have little
pranise of becoming a system at least in the tradition of large city and regional
systE!fIB. Indeed, the 1977 Comprehensive Park Plan used the term park system to
describe all of the individual parts and whether they were existing or proposed but
left the concept of trail acquisition and developnent to the Metropolitan Council,
and possibly, Scott County. The OV'erall plan indicates that trails are recommended
but without any narrative as to how they may relate to other existing imprOV'ements
and under what standards they might be built. The only trail actually constructed
following adoption of the plan was built by Scott County, funded by the City, as part
of the County lbad 21 inprovement along the former railroad right-of-way south of
City Hall. 'Ibis first step was constructed as a traditional sidewalk four feet in
width rather than one eight foot wide paved surface suitable for two way bicycle
traffic. The recommendations identified on the plan map need to be augmented both by
added miles and an inplementation program.
In recent years, there are a couple of concerns in regard to the developnent of the
park system. First of all, as the comwnity grows, new resident's that become our
neiglix>rs have an affect on the priority of capital expenditures. As the neiglix>rs
build new hanes, they want their neighborhood parks developed for thier use. At the
current funding levels, it is difficult to meet their needs .mN address conmmi.ty
park needs as well. Secondly, the state and Federal Grant program virtually ceased
in 1980. Historically, cannunity parks are more expensive to develop due to the
types of inpr0\7ements necessary for camunity use. The City has been trying to
develop these parks utilizing the piecemeal approach, however there has not been
satisfactory progress made to date.
Another concern that should be addressed very soon is the need to develop a policy
for rennant park parcels-those parcels that have not been developed or may never be
developed. If these parcels don't fit into our park system Master Plan, then perhaps
they should be disposed of properly.
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TRAn.. SYSTEM
The City of Prior Lake is not likely to achieve a linked trail system unless park and
recreation dedication requirements are revised and a new category of collector
street, intended to serve individual neighborooods is added. Olrrently the City
&mdivision Ordinance indicates that sidewalks and/or bicycle paths should be
constructed alORJ both sides of arterial and collector streets. 'Ibis has been
interpreted by staff in a way that plans and specifications for major street
inpr0\7ements are drafted to include a five-foot wide concrete sidewalk alORJ one side
and an eight-foot wide bituminous bike trail on the other. This provides an initial
inpact in any neighborhood where major road inprovements are contenplated. However,
the rest of the system may take years to complete since JOOst of the arterial and
collector streets do not need to be upgraded.
An amendment to the City SUbdivision Ordinance to add minor collector streets to the
system hierarchy would speed up the inplementation process considerably. 'Ibe cross
section of this new street would be similar to the design for established collectors
with the same combination of sidewalk and bike trail flanking the automotive surface.
This can pr0\7ide neighborhood access to the city wide trail system on surfaces that
do not require pedestrians, bikes and autaoobiles to compete for the same space. IN
ADDITIOO, 'mE PARKLAND DEDICATION SOCTION CF THE SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE NEEDS 'ID BE
REVISID BY ADD~ A SEPARATE CATEGORY CF OPEN SPACE DESCRIBED AS TRAILS AND aw<<;IR:;
THE rotaPI' OF CASH IN LIEU CF LAND 'ID A SPOCIFIC AIDUNl' ($300) PER rm OF FLATTED
PROPERTY RAmER ':mAN THE OJRRENl' ESI'IMATE OF THE VALUE OF LAND BFFORE IT HAS BErn
DEmLOPED. THE RJRroSE IS 'ID rnEATE A CASH RESERVE LARGE ENXX;H 'ID GENERATE PARK AND
TRAIL SYSTEJt1 IMPROJEMEm'S AS QUICKLY AS 'mE NFl'l RESIDENl'S HAVE A NEID FOR 'llJBtt. The
specific formula is described in the inplementation section, but essentially the new
system is not BUch different from the current park dedication requirements. The
major exception is that it will generate money both for parks and trails more quickly
than the current fomula.
The trail system recorrmended to serve Prior Lake includes all of the minor arterial
streets, rrajor collector streets and the new category of neiglborhood collector
streets. They are intended to link together all of the public parks, stol1lWater
management ponds and schools in the city. This will provide a series of loop; that
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will be suitable for walking, jogging and biking and link all neighborhoods with the
ptblic facilities in Prior Lake. The most inportant trail in the city is likely to
be the JOOst difficult to achieve since it is located within the right-of-way of
Higlvay 13. The best location will be on the west side of the traveled surface since
part of the east side is not in the City of Prior Lake. The city BUst first explore
with the District Ebgineer of the Minnesota Higl'Jt1ay Department if it is possible to
use the right-of-way for trails and determine under what conditions the trail will be
acceptable. The design will require a traveled surface of eight feet in width and
two feet of shoulders on both sides. The trail will need to be close to the higl'Jt1ay
without actually being placed close enough for surfaces to join since the space
needed is too broad to place on either cut or fill areas adjoining the higlvay. A
safe trail is recarmended to be separated fran the moving traffic lanes by at least
20 feet. lbiever, the separation along Highway l3 may be forced closer because of
the adjoining cut-and-fill slopes.
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WATER ACCESS
Two properties that would help open the Lake to use by I'IDre residents are located on
QRX)site sides of the "Wagon Bridge" where upper and lower Prior Lake are joined by
narrow channel. '!he Dunn property has been operated as a private marina for many
years, whereas the McDonald property is a vacant parcel, with lakeshore in constant
use by fishermen. Both functions could be continued and other uses added if these
sites were to be aoquired by the city. A corrm.mity band shell and formal gardens are
two possible uses that would add interest to the park system. Hennepin County
developed a large garden on the shore of Lake Minnetonka which is in demand for
st.mner weddings. Other comnuni ties have developed rose gardens which became back
drops for wedding photography, as well as, other group pictures. Both of these sites
have space CMay frOOl the lakeshore which would be suitable for either COIIIIUnity
gardens or a band shell. Both are highly visible sites and both could include direct
access to the City Trail System with access to all residential neighborhoods.
The Vierling property has been recarmended for acquisition since the 1977
Cooprehensive Park Plan was adopted. '!be site contains sixty acres and approximately
l300 f~t of frontage on the lake. The land is part of a large dairy and grain farm,
which because of the rolling topography has been used in the past, both as a pasture
and a wood lot. '!he site is heavily wooded and would be suitable for areas ranging
fran nature study to active water based recreation. This park also could be expanded
to a size large enough to serve the cormunity play field needs of the neighborhoods
north of Prior Lake. '!he site adjoining relatively level land has been considered
industrial and possibly should be developed into an athletic field to alleviate
crowding at the Pond. A major north side collector street and trail system will
facilitate general usage of both parts of this park.
'!be three sites are difficult to rank because of their lack of similarity. Both the
Mcn:>nald and nmn properties are inportant because of their visibility at the center
of the oamunity. '!he Vierling property is inportant because of its size and
versatility for many uses. The 1977 Plan suggested it as a potential school/park
site. It is likely that if funding were available for only one site, the Vierling
property would be favored O\7er the others because of the flexibility it would pr0\7ide
to the city recreation program, particularly if the north side athletic fields are
incorporated .
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NA'lURAL FEA'IURES
Ole of the few significant natural features which has not been built upon or
otherwise spoiled by action of man is the dramatic wooded ridge line which is
situated soutlwest of the intersection of County ~ds 42 and 2l. From the north
looking south, it provides a major backdrop to the protected wetlands which function
as the outlet to the lake of Prior Lake. The bulk of this ridge is included within
the Jeffers property which has a minil1lJl1l of open land that is not covered by woods or
water. At one time, the City and Mr. Jeffers were discussing a potential agreement
whereby the City would guarantee the property owner a fixed arount of lOOney for this
property if the developnent of it were done in a manner that left the ridge line and
adjoining woodlands as public open space.
'!be concept: discussed involved a Planned Unit Developnent on approxinately l20 of the
350 acre site leaving 230 acres as a nature preserve available to the pl.blic.
fblsing, in the form of single family dwellings, townhomes and apartments together
with a small cormnercial service center and a possible conference center would be
clustered at the north eoo of the site. This leaves a s1i>stantial open space area
that can become the focal IX>int for envirorunental studies within the School District
academic and Comnunity Education programs. Other IX>ssibilities include a Group Canp
Environmental Learning Center following a site plan which is sensitive to the
preservation of this inportant natural area. The City Council decided, lxJwever, that
because several private developers were actively pursuing plans for this area, it
would be inappropriate for the City to enter the ~tition. Should private
negotiations fail, the City JIUst be ready to follow through on the original concept
or one similar in IX>tential. The cormunity has a long range interest in this site
and will need to exercise great care in keeping the ridge from being trivialized by
inappropriate developnent.
Lakefront Park developnent JtlJSt also be sensitive in terms of staying clear of the
natural, passive recreation areas. There are virgin maple stands that need to be
identified and retained in their natural state in order to preserve the integrity of
the park. A similar natural feature can be found on the north shore of Markley Lake.
Here, too, there is virgin maple and oak trees along with steep slopes that nust
remain in their natural setting through conservation and preservation practices so
that the shoreline of Markley Lake is protected.
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SIDRot WATER MANAGEMENr roms
Close coordination between the storm drainage system and the park system can produce
an efficient open space system. Extra large storm sewers often have been used as a
way to pr0\7ide pedestrian links on opposite sides of heavily traveled roads. Land
adjoining open channels for running water can serve as part of the city trail system.
Because tenporary ponding areas are used to their full caplcity infrequently, certain
portions of the ponding area can be used for playgrounds which contain equipnent that
will suffer minimal dan8ge frQn flooding. The ponding areas are not intended as a
substitute for dedicated park land, but to supplement them. Storm water management
ponds do add to the value of vacant lots so, while serving their intended purpose,
ponds do becane an amenity to the developer as well.
The ownership of storm water ponds has been subject to debate in the Metropolitan
area between those who would like the ponds owned outright by each namicipality and
others who would like only an easement, which can be used to maintain the drainage
system. In Prior Lake, the &1gineering Department believes that either way is
acceptable except that owning assures that if a ponding area nust be reworked
sometime in the future, it can be done without dealing once again with the property
owner who is likely to look upon the ponding area as part of his yard.
Water storage ponds are necessary during peak run off periods to prevent downstream
flooding and to minimize storm water drainage project costs. Both "wet" and "dry"
poooing areas can be designed depending upon the height of the natural water table
and the design of the outlet. A "dry" pooo will hold water only during peak run-off
periods. Storm water ponds may be privately owned, privately owned with easements or
owned by the City. In order for them to function effectively as a part of the storm
sewer system, the City needs the right to prevent encroachment and filling.
'lberefore, private ownership is not practical. The major differences between public
ownership and a ponding easement is that adjoining property owners may ask that City
owned poooing areas be maintained as if they were parks, whereas an easement ponding
area may be difficult to police with regard to the storage of materials, tree
planting or regrading in a way which would interfere with the designed capacity to
hold water. If the City owns the property, it can be used for any ptj>lic purpose,
whereas a ponding area maintained through a {X>nding easement may only be used for
ponding .
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HIS'IDRICAL FAR-!
Lakefront Park was created from three separate land holdings, which when put together
linked the downtown Business District directly with the Lake. Ole of the owners, the
Kop family, sold a major portion of their farm land to help create this park. They
did, however, retain approximately thirteen (13) acres of land around the existing
hanestead which meant that they could continue living on the family farm while the
City gained a central location for a major recreation resource. An objective of this
plan is to once again identify the thirteen acres and associated buildings as a site
to be acquired whenever the Kop family decides to relocate.
Several cities in the Metropolitan Area have used similar sites to good advantage by
re-establishing an agricultural environment as a way to introduce stburban children
to sources of food beyond the local super market. other information that a
historical farm lnparts, involves the background of this conmunity and what it was
like to live here during a particular period of time. Both the house and the farm
building can be put to good use in this manner.
Ole additional bonus of the purchase is to create better access to the central
activities area than currently is available. This likely will mean that the major
out building will need to be replaced, but since it is a steel clad "pole type"
building, period compatibility likely would dictate such a change anyway. Ibwever,
it should be noted that the farm need not focus on the time period that the house was
built as the site continued to be agricultural until the park land was purchased.
Farm animals will be an inportant element in this learning environment and will be a
continuing expense to be recognized in the program budget. The staff will be
observing various "faI1ll3" operated within municipal park systems to better understand
the financial inplications of this program.
-14-
j}RaI{VlT.r.F. HTT.r oS PARK
Brooksville Hills Park is, at the present time, sirrply large enough for a tot lot.
It was acquired in 1988 from Marv EggUlll through the park land dedication requirement.
It consists of a 2 1/2 acre parcel that is heavily sloped to a holding pond. There
is enough roan to develop a small tot lot however, looking to the future, the park
DUSt be added to on the east side as that property develops. This would leave enough
park land to develop a nice neighborhood park. Developnent of this tot lot will take
place in 1991.
'Ibis triangle of land represents the first step in creating a neiglt>orhood park that
will be useful to nearby residents. The existing park and proposed expansion will
store storm water run off during a major rainfall. The site needs a substantial
ntmber of trees planted and would also be suitable for the introduction of larch
trees into the park system. The major invesbnent recorrarended is a 50' by 50' play
structure for small children and a trail system that will be of interest to all. A
series of benches along the walk is also recaranended. A ballfield has not been
proposed but the expansion area could certainly include one if there is substantial
neighborb>od sURX>rt before the expansion area has been precisely defined. The plan
illustrates the proposed relationship between this park and the growing neiglt>ormoo.
It is very inportant that the tiny point of access shall be expanded to approximately
500 feet in width.
Dlture DevelolJllent
Grading and Seeding
Play equipnent
She! ter
Paved trails
.Q>st~
$ 5,000
5,000
10,000
l2,000
Tineframe
1991
1991
1995
1995
-15-
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FISH mINI' PARK
Fish Point Park is an 11 acre parcel that serves the residents of Fish Point ~ and
the Shangrila SUbdivision. This p:lrcel was acquired in 1979 through park land
dedication fran Lawrence ScBoieich Construction. Initial developnent of this park
occurred in 1982 with the grading and seeding, installation of play equipnent, and
inprovement of the two accesses.
Fish Point Park is perhaps more beneficial to adjoining property owners than it is to
the neig1i:>orhood. It is largely a remant of land left over after the original tract
was developed. Most of the park is in a valley that has only two points of access.
A picnic shelter is reccmnended adjoining a play structure on the only high ground in
the park. The hill is relatively short but does have a 20% slope which may be
suitable for sliding. For this reason trees have been clustered to leave a sliding
opportunity. 'nle'proposed trail loops within the park and includes an extension to
a privately owned outlot with the hope that the City will be able to negotiate the
right to create a third access to the valley. Because the site is rolling, there
does not appear to be an opportunity to pr0\7ide open playfields. The marsh area in
the northwest comer of the park should be acquired to effectively create a small
wildlife habitat and storm water detention pond.
.future Developnent
Equipnent
Shelter
Paved trails
.9>ill
$ 2,500
10,000
15,000
Tineframe
1992
1993
1993
-17-
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ISIJ\ND VI&l PARK
Island View Park is a neiglix>rhood park located in the plat of Island View 4th
Addition. This park was acquired in 1987 through park land dedication frail Alnac,
Incorporated. This park will serve as both a tot lot and a neighborl'x>od park after
developnent of play equipnent, shelter, and grading. nIe to neighborl'x>od pressure,
this park will be developed in 1990 to serve the needs of the neighborl'x>od.
As indicated in the insert showing proposed park boundaries, Island View Park in its
present configuration is the first phase of a good sized neighborlx>od facility that
will be expanded when adjoining land is developed. The property currently dedicated
for park purposes is fifteen to twenty feet lower than Crystal Court which provides
its only access. A thirty foot wide access links this cul-de-sac street with the
park between two single family houses at the end of the turnaround. Inside the
current park there is a relatively small area which is suitable for a play structure
and a 20 by 40 shelter. Use of the park by residents who run, jog or walk will
require more land than is available. Once the site has been enlarged, a trail system
can be added throughout the wooded site. The open area of the park will need sane
hardwood trees for future shade as well as benches to place along the trail for sane
quiet enjoyment of this park.
.future Develognent
Grading & Seeding
Play equipnent
Shelter
Costs
$ 2,500
5,000
10,000
Timeframe
1990
1990
1993
-19-
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IAKEFRCNl' PARK
Lakefront Park was initially purchased with a Park Bond ReferendlDll and the assistance
of a state and Federal Grant in 1975. Primary acquisition was from John and Meda Kop
C80 acres) with the rest of the park land C39 acres) being purchased from various
owners adjacent to the Kop property. In 1978, an additional 7 acres was acquired
fran the Watzl family and is known as Watzl's Point. That, also, was purchased with
the assistance of state and Federal Grant lOOnies. Lakefront Park, as it exists today
is a beautiful "jewel" sitting in the center of the canrrunity and consists of 126
acres total.
Lakefront Park has recently been the topic of discussion for major developnent. It
is .tbe showcase in term:; of the park system but has received little to no
developnent attention since the grant prograns ceased. As the showcase of the
camunity, Lakefront Park needs to be given attention. Developnent of the park
should include, but not be limited to, paved trails, shelters, lake access, inproved
access from County Road 44, expanded parking, tennis courts, and inproved athletic
facilities. There has been pressure from the residents for certain inprovements,
however, the park has not been listed as a high priority for funding. In the very
near future, the Parks Advisory Corm1i.ttee should establish developnent guidelines and
methods for funding for Lakefront Park.
As part of the planning for such a large area, a deSign consultant should be utilized
in order to cane up with a Master Plan that will include those items that are a
priority for developnent. The need for paved trails and inpr0\7ed access has been
determined, however, other uses of the park should be researched and included in the
final Master Plan. Once the Master Plan is in place and has been accepted, then
revenue sources will have to be establ ished to inplement the Master Plan for
Lakefront Park. Developnent of this park should begin allOOst inrnediately and should
continue for a 5-7 }'ear period until the Master Plan becanes a reality and Lakefront
Park does, indeed, becane the "jewel" of the City of Prior Lake.
~tllt.e Develognent
Paved trails
Shel ter
Irrigation
Play equipnent
Undetermined developnent
Costs
$l50,000
50,000
30,000
25,000
$1 ,000,000
-21-
Timefrarne
1992
1992
1992
1993
1997
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'!he original park land was acqui red in the mid 70 I S as p:lrt of the tcrth Shore Oaks
SUbdivision. In 1988, 4 acres was added to the original 2 acres to make a 6 acre
neighborhood park. '!here has been pressure from the North Shore Oaks neiglix>rhood to
develop this site into a usable park for the last ten years. Since the acquisition
of the 4 acres from Sinpkins/Farrell, there is enough park land to develop.
Development will occur on this site in 1991.
'lbe original site dedicated for p:lrk purposes is little IOOre than a marsh and cannot
be developed. 'Ibe area JOOst recently dedicated has sane buildable land surrounding
another low area, but this site will not function as a useable p:lrk until the land to
the west is developed and the site has been enlarged. The park program involves a
relatively large play structure and a trail system which may be entered from both
Fisher and Cardinal streets. A mixture of hardwood and evergreen trees is
recamended adjoining the street rights of way. The trail proposed in the plan
cannot be looped until land to the west is added since the area between the 910 and
912 elevation is likely to be under water for nuch of the year.
Future Developnent
Grading and seeding
Play equipnent
Paved trails
Shelter
.Q2sts
$ 2,500
5,000
10,000
10,000
Tineframe
1991
1991
1991
1993
-23-
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THE roND
'!he Pond Athletic Canplex is a 70 acre parcel located at the south edge of the City
of Prior Lake. '!be original 40 acres was purchased in 1980 from Alvin and Leona Ebel
who had farmed the property for many :years. With the assistance of State and Federal
Grants, the parcel was purchased and developed with active play starting in 1982.
Also in 1982, the City of Prior Lake purchased an adjacent 30 acres for the purposes
of athletic fields. There is currently strong IXJblic pressure to develop the 30
acres due to a shortage of athletic facilities in the cormunity. Eventual
inprovements to the site would include irrigation, partial lighting, tennis courts,
paved walkways aromd the pond, and expanded parking.
'lbe Pond has added considerable depth to the recreational program of Prior Lake. Six
softball fields, one baseball field and two soccer fields have been designed in a
manner that indicates a camunity park as well as a major athletic carplex. The
current proposal is to create two additional softball fields and two football fields
plus four tennis courts. The expansion will be challenging because of the high
standards set in the initial developnent. While the pooo within the site does not
utilize nuch of the expansion area, a major topographic barrier in the soutlvest
comer of the site does intrude enough to interrupt the syrmetry of the first Iilase.
The site also has been used to develop the park system nursery. The result is a plan
which places the added features between areas that should not be disturbed. In a
sense these limitations have been turned around to again foster an image of a major
camunity park at the south edge of the existing urban area. cne feature introduced
into the original developnent is a jogging trail which loops the pom and three of
the athletic fields. '!be added activity at the south end of the site will be served
by a parking lot for approximately 130 automobiles.
~ture DevelQpnent
Irrigation
Grading and seeding
Tennis courts (4)
Shelter
Field developnent
Field lighting (4)
Spectator seating
Scoreboards (12)
Costs
$ 60,000
50,000
60,000
25,000
20,000
l25,000
25,000
30,000
-25-
Timef raIle
1991-93
1993
1994
1994
1993
1995
1994
1995
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RASPBERRY RIDGE PARK
Rasp,erry Ridge Park was established by corrt>ining dedicated park land fran the
Windsong Subdivision (7 acres) in 1985 and the RasIi>erry Ridge Subdivision (5 acres)
in 1987. By having a rather large parcel of park land <12 acres) the neiglix>rhoods
of Rasp,erry Ridge. and Martinson Island will both be served by this unique IBrcel.
An active playfield will be developed at the intersection of Lord's Street and
Manitou Road which will include a ball field, shelter, and play equipnent. '!be
remainder of the park will remain passive and in a natural state. 'Ibis plrk is
scheduled for developnent in 1990.
Rasp,erry Ridge Park includes the right of way of the former railroad line which
linked Farmington with Shakopee. It also includes a relatively large marsh and a 300
foot long wooded 20% slope which should be ci>served but not disturbed. 'Ibe park is
accessible fran both County Road 21 and Lord Street but the roost frequent access is
likely to be pr0\7ided from Ras{berry Ridge Road to the north. 'Ibe park was designed
to accoJTl'lK)()ate a softball field, tennis court, picnic shelter and a relatively large
play structure. '!he trail system is designed to bring people from the adjoining
neighborhood to the proposed facilities and the natural features. 'Ibe loop around
the marsh serves a dual function for exercise and informal nature study in a
relatively secluded area. Tree planting is recommended to include evergreens and
mixed hardwoods.
Future Developnent
Grading and seeding
Play equipnent
Shelter
Ball field
~t.Q
$10,000
5,000
10,000
2,500
~frame
1990
1990
1993
1991
-27-
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RASPBERRY l<<XDS PARK
Rasp,erry Woods Park is a large <18 acres) conservation area on the north edge of
Rasp,erry Ridge Subdivision. With the exception of paved trails am a picnic
shelter, the site will remain in a natural, undisturbed state. '!he topography and
terrain consists of gently rolling hills with mature tree cover throughout the site.
Any kind of major developnent of this p:lrcel would destroy the integrity of this
natural preserve. This p:lrk was acquired in 1987 as p:lrt of the dedication
requirement for Rasp,erry Ridge.
This park is intended as a greenbelt hiking/biking link between County Road 21 and a
major proposed park north of the lake on land owned by the Vierl ing family. The
topography is sharply rolling with potholes surrounded by sane steep slopes. Because
JOOst of the park is wooded and many of the adjoining lots are extremely deep as well
as wooded, it will be possible for trail users to largely shut themselves away from
contenp>rary urban developnent. '!he primary point of access is from Hidden Pond
Trail and a second will be available when RasIDerry Ridge is largely developed. Once
in the park, there are a mmDer of recreation options including picnicking at one of
two proposed gazebos and a long looping walk with rest sto{S constructed of logs cut
on site. 'Ibe entrance areas appear to need some additional hardwood trees. Ibwever,
the largest developnent cost will invol ve clearing and grading the recanmended
trails. If the proposed north shore cornnunity park is not created because of
residential expansion into the area, Rasp,erry Woods should be exteOOed eastward
until it meets with the proposed arterial street known as Carridge Hill Road.
,[uture Developnent
Paved trails
Shel ter
.922ts
$20,000
10,000
Tinefrarne
1993
1993
-29-
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SAND POINT BFAOI PARK
Sand Point Beach Park was originally a 12 acre parcel acquired in 1977 frail Almac,
Incorporated. The original site was purchased with the assistance of a State and
Federal Grant. In 1979, 8 acres was added to the site through park land dedication
frail Almac, Incorporated. In addition, the Department of Natural Resources bought 2
acres adjacent to Sand Point Beach and in 1989, constructed a public access to Prior
Lake, including a double ranp and parking for 28 vehicles. In 1986, the City then
purchased the 2 acre Zvirbulis parcel which completed the land acquisition for Sand
Point Beach. 'lbe entire parcel that is City owned consists of 22 acres.
In 1989, the Prior Lake Lion's Club made a camnittment of $100,000 to the City of
Prior Lake to be used for the developnent of Sand Point Beach. During this five year
period, picnic shelters, play structures, tree planting, paved trails, and other
amenities will be completed.
Sand Point Beach has changed significantly CNer tine. It began as a small but very
active community park largely because of the excellent water quality. Development of
the adjoining land to the north resulted in expansion and the am Access together
with the purchase of private land between both facilities has only added to park
activity. A major effort should be launched to re-establish the cottonwood gr0\7e
that was rerooved next to the beach. The park also suffers frail a canparison between
the inprovement standards utilized in establishing the DNR access. 'Ibe parking lot
needs to be redesigned and paved in order for it to do justice to this inportant
center of recreational activity.
Future Developnent
Tree planting
Shelter
Play structure
Paved trails
Paved parking
Fishing pier
Costs
$15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
75,000
20,000
Tineframe
1991
1992
1992
1993
1995
1991
-3l-
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SAND .OOINT _ PARK
Sand Point Park is a 5 acre site located in the middle of Sand Point &1bdivision.
This parcel was acquired through park land dedication from Alnac, Incorporated, in
1979. The park was developed with play equipnent, grading and seeding, and tree
planting in 1985. There remains to be approximately l50 trees yet to be planted
along with a need for a shelter.
This is an ideal neiglix>rhood park inasmuch as it is located at the center of the
neighborhood it serves. It contains approximately five acres, has good points of
access fran City Streets, and is level enough to provide a ballfield area that is not
crowded. In addition it contains a play structure and will have a picnic shelter and
a looping trail that passes all of the proposed facilities. The only negative aspect
of this park is that it was extensively regraded while the neighborhood was under
construction. Prior to that the land was agricultural and therefore there are no
trees to provide needed shade during the stmmer. '!be plan provides a large mJllt)er of
deciduous and coniferous trees planted in a natural mix rather than severe rows. '!be
trees will help establish a park identity and the trail is informal enough to provide
an interesting walk in close proximity to all residents.
ll1tw:e Develcu:ment
Trees
Shelter
Play equipnent
~
$ 5,000
10,000
2,500
Timeframe
1992
1993
1992
-33-
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SJNSET HILLS PARK
SUnset Hills P.ark is a neighborhood park consisting of 3 acres in the Sunset Hills
Subdivision. This land was acquired in 1983 from Scottland, Incorporated, to satisfy
the park dedication requirement for the plat. In 1989, the park was developed by
grading and seeding the site, installation of play equipnent, and tree planting.
Mditional developnent of the park will include a paved trail, a hard surface court
area, and a shelter.
SUnset Hills Park qualifies as a mini park and illustrates the capacity for even a
tiny area to pr0\7ide needed outlets for recreational activity. 'Ibis site will
include a small play structure for very young children am a paved court for
basketball, a mini softball field and a site for a volley ball court. '!be looping
trail will get people onto the wooded hillside and none of the proposed developnent
will interfere with the capacity of the storm water management ponding area. A
neighborhood group took an active interest in the developnent of this park and was
successful in achieving unique neighborhood focus.
.future developnent
Play equipnent
Paved trails
Shelter
~ts
$ 2,500
lO ,000
lO,OOO
Tirref r ame
1991
1993
1993
-35-
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l'OOJ\TIn-l PARK
N:>odview Park is a large, heavily wooded parcel of 13 acres. 'Ibis park was acquired
in 1983 fran Len Grassinni as the park dedication for the Woodview &.Jbdivision. This
parcel is of unique charactor in that there are steep slopes, natural ponding areas,
and a long ravine running the length of the property. This site will remain natural
with very little developnent other than a paved trail connecting Higbiay l3 with
Spring Lake which should be installed within 3-5 years.
The JOOst significant contribution made by this park is that is prOl7ides an off the
road trail that will get neighborhood residents to the small lot owned by the City on
Spring Lake. The trail is designed to loop the entire park pr0\7iding anple
o~rtunities to ooserve the large ponding area and the steep slopes adjoining the
residential neiglDorhooc1. A small picnic shelter and relatively large play structure
are recomnended for increased interest. The park would benefit from expanded
openings onto nearby residential streets. But, the opportunity to expand the si te
has likely been lost to nearby building activity.
.fut.ur.e_~D.t
Clearing and grubbing
Shelter
Paved trails
.Q2st.s
$10,000
10,000
15,000
Timef rame
1991
1993
1995
-37-
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FCLICIES FOR ~M'ION
In order to ircplement the PARKS ('X)MPRmENSIVE PLAN there are several policies that
will have to be addressed. Sane of these plat policies will need to be updated while
other policies, as reccmnended by staff, are new.
PARK DEDlCATlOO REDUIREJo1Em'
Past policy indicated that there would be a l0% lam dedication for all new
subdivisions. 'Ibis dedication could be made in cash based on the raw land value of
the subdivision. The cash dedication is determined ~ staff, not the developer.
In addition, there is a $299 Park Dedication fee on all building permits that is used
for park a<X)Uisition and/or developnent. '1l1is policy will remain in affect with the
exception of adding another dedication to the building permit fee. '1l1is additional
dedication requirement, as recamnended by staff, would be another $250 that would be
used for trail and walkway developnent. '1l1is change would have to be inoorporated
into the Subdivision Regulations as well.
LAND AOOUISlTION POLICY
Based on the Park Canprehensi ve Plan, an implementation plan for aoquisi tion should
be set in policy. Staf would recanmend that the following priority be established
for acquisition:
!miH
Trail System
Lakeshore property
MEDIUM
Historical Farm (Kop's)
Northside Playfields
UH
Envirormental Area
Neighborhood Parks
A trail system seems to be the most pressing need. One of the oojectives of the Park
Can~ehensive Plan is the linking of existing, as well as future, public facilities.
'll1e sdlools, camunity parks, neighborhood parks, and regional park facilities should
be linked by a system wide trail/walkway system.
.- 38 -
SlOIfo1 WATER MANAGEJell' AREAS
Ndle these facilities are necessary for developnent of subdivisions, they should not
be included in the open space dedication requirement for park land. In sane
instances, there may be a walkway system that surrounds and links these areas with
other park lands. However, by allowing a credit to developers by counting storm
water management areas as open space areas as well only penalizes our open sploe
system. If a holding pond is a holding pond, then we sinply carmot refer to it as
open sploe as well--they cannot meet both criteria.
- 39 -
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. . . Baseball Di~nd.
Boat Launch
. . . . . . . . . . Children's Play. round .
. . . . . Concessions
. . . . . . Electricity
. . . . Fishin<<
. . . . . . . . . . . . Grills
. . . . Hikinc Trails
. Hockey Rink
. . Horseshoe Pi ts
. . . . . . Pavilion
. . . . . . . . . . . Picnic Grounds
. . . . . . . Pleasure Rink
. . . . . . Public Phone
. . . . . Restrooas
. . . Sand Volleyball
. . Soccer Fields
. . . . . Softball Di~nds
. . . . Svi_iu
. Val"1lin,