2018.04.04 PREC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Parks and RecreationDRAFT 5-67 Trails Trails are an increasingly desired recreation and mobility feature of the community. They appeal to all ages and abilities and also perform an alternative transportation function. Building new trails (or increasing connectivity) can be a difficult task within established communities such as New Brighton. The barriers of I-35W, I-694, and an active railroad corridor through the city inhibit pedestrian movement and bicycle use. These barriers also pose safety issues that make expansion of the existing trail and sidewalk network an even greater priority. Improving connectivity can be achieved by retrofitting existing streets to have a more pronounced trail (bike or walking) or by working with willing property owners to secure easements or right-of-way where desired trail connections make the most sense. This challenge should be addressed through the park system planning process as a priority implementation initiative. The City should commit resources to make New Brighton a connected and walkable community. This will pay dividends to the community in terms of accessibility and community identity and will enhance quality of life for existing and future residents, businesses and organizations. ""I would love more bike lane connections to regional trails, but also into the Minneapolis system. We are a good bikeable distance for commuters, but getting into Minneapolis on a safe route is difficult. Collector 8’5’ 11’ 8.5’8.5’ 11’ 8’ TRAILWALK BOULEVARD 34’ ROADWAY WIDTH 80’ TYPICAL RIGHT-OF-WAY 8’ 6’6’DRIVING LANEDRIVING LANEBIKELANE BOULEVARD BIKELANE Concrete Curb and Gutter Rainwater Gardens Boulevard Trees Bituminous Roadway Right-of-Way Rainwater Garden Bike Lane Bituminous Trail Right-of-Way Bike Lane Regional Trails Rice Creek West Trail is a regional trail located in the northern part of the city, which is connected to Long Lake Regional Park to the east and the Mississippi River to the west. Rice Creek North Trail connects New Brighton to communities to the north and east following Rice Creek into Anoka County. Highway 96 Trail provides connections to the east towards White Bear Lake and connects with other regional trail corridors. More information on these regional corridors is available through the Ramsey County Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan. Sidewalks and Trails The City has approximately 21 miles of sidewalks. Sidewalks are the backbone of the City’s bike and walk system. Community input has shown a strong desire for enhanced bike and pedestrian connections throughout the city, especially to connect people to the parks system, as well as the regional trail network. Local trails are limited to within existing City parks. Trails are an integral part of a comprehensive recreational system and transportation system. Image Source: Maplewood Living Streets Policy