121002 PK AgPCITY OF SHOREWOOD 5755 COUNTRY CLUB ROAD
PARK COMMISSION MEETING CITY HALL
TUESDAY DECEMBER 10, 2002 7:00 P.M.
AGENDA
1. CONVENE PARK COMMISSION MEETING
A. Roll Call
Young_
Meyer
Davis
Callies
Palesch
Bartlett
Arnst
B. Review Agenda
2.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1 A. Park Commission Minutes of November 12, 2002(Att. -#2A Draft Summary)
3.
MATTERS FROM THE FLOOR
4.
REPORTS
A. Report on City Council Meetings of November 12 and 25 (Council membi r)
B. Update on Planning Progress for Park Coordinator and Communications With
Sports Organizations (Engineer Brown)
C. Report on Plans for Smithtown Road Neighbor Meeting, Per Discussions With
WSB (Engineer Brown)
5.
APPROVAL AND RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL ON MASTER PLAN
(Att.45)
6.
DISCUSS PARK SURVEY AND DETERMINE IF RESULTS SHOULD BE
PUBLISHED IN SHORE REPORT (Att.46)
7.
DETERMINE COUNCIL LIAISON FOR JANUARY
S.
NEW BUSINESS Council Liaison:
December: Callies
9.
ADJOURNMENT January:
CITY OF SHOREWOOD
PARK COMMISSION MEETING
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2002
5755 COUNTRY CLUB ROAD
SHOREWOOD CITY HALL
7:00 P.M.
MINUTES
1. CONVENE PARK COMMISSION MEETING $:
Chair Arnst called the meeting to order at 7:04 P.M.
A. Roll Call
Present: Chair Arnst, Commissioners Young, Davis, Bartlett, Meyer, and Callies; City
Engineer Brown
Absent: Commissioner Palesch, City Council Liaison Zerby, and Mark Koegler of
Hoisington Koegler Group
B. Review Agenda
Bartlett moved, Young seconded, to approve the Agenda as submitted. Motion passed 6/0.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
0 A. Park Commission Minutes of October 8, 2002
Chair Arnst corrected page 3, paragraph 3, to read "... the overall Comprehensive Plan. ". Also, page
three, paragraph 4, to reflect "...the entire Comprehensive Plan in 2005. ".
Chair Arnst revised page 8, paragraph 6, to read as follows, "...that the previous City Council had
received a petition from the neighbors to run... ".
Page 10, paragraph 8, Chair Arnst added "...Park Commissioner who had carried the petition... ".
3. MATTERS FROM THE FLOOR
There were none.
4. REPORTS
A. Report on City Council Meetings of October 14 and 28, and November 12, 2002
As the City Council liaison was not present to make his report, Chair Arnst asked Engineer Brown to
report on the Council meetings of Oct. 14, 28, and Nov. 12.
While unprepared to report on the October meetings, Brown suggested the City Council agendas be added
to the Park Commission packets in order to ensure Commissioners can question anything of interest to
them.
Callies pointed out that the Commissioners do get the agendas at home, and are capable of accessing the
PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2002
Page 2 of 8
Council Minutes on the website to answer any of their questions.
While she was disappointed no liaison was present, Chair Arnst asked if Engineer Brown could report on
the November 12, 2002 Council meeting.
Brown reported that the City Council accepted a petition to allow the Cub Foods developer to extend a
private watermain down Yellowstone, through the Lyndon Hills plat, to service the Cub Foods site. He
indicated that far more questions remain than answers and the City is now in the position to draft a license
agreement between the developer, to try to address all of the issues that are out there. Brown added that it
is presumed that the watermain would be conveyed to the City after installation.
The second item Brown felt of interest to the Commission was a discussion between Park Foundation
members and the Council during a work session last evening. While Foundation productivity was
discussed at great length, the Foundation claimed that the City had more power over them than they would
admit, or the Foundation would like. Brown noted that the Foundation did raise $4,500 hosting the craft
fair last weekend for the City.
5. REVIEW AND FINALIZE PRIORITY POLICY
A. Discuss plan for finalizing and recommending to Council
C
Brown explained that, based on comments from previous Park Commission meetings, staff made revisions
to the Priority Policy for review. He pointed out several key changes to the policy, including, removal of
paragraph one, the addition of several definitions, and the revised equation reflecting number of teams per •
organization versus players, to name a few.
Chair Arnst asked if the City Attorney would need to review this document.
Brown indicated that it would not be necessary for a policy document to be reviewed by the City
Attorney.
Meyers questioned whether the City, or Park Coordinator, could make changes to the document.
Brown pointed out that the Park Coordinator would have the ability to make modifications as needed.
Meyer stated that the Commission's intention would be to follow this document pretty closely.
Callies questioned the "K" Factor.
Brown indicated that the "K" Factor had been removed, and the equation was purely mathematical, in
order to ensure everyone was treated equally.
Davis recommended that "P ", the number of players, be changed to represent the number of teams in the
organization as discussed previously.
Chair Arnst asked Brown if other staff members had reviewed the document in order to achieve additional
feedback.
•
PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2002
Page 3 of 8
0 Brown stated that he and other staff members had worked most every scenario they could think of.
Other than the minor changes discussed, Chair Arrest inquired whether the document could be moved
forward to Council for action. She complimented Brown and the Commission on creating a clean and
concise document.
Meyer moved, Young seconded, to recommend to the City Council that they enact the Park Priority
Policy with the minor changes discussed this evening. Motion passed 6/0.
B. Set date for meeting with representatives from Sports Organizations
With regard to setting the Sports Organization meeting date, Brown indicated that it would be difficult to
hold the meeting before January 28, 2003, if the City truly wanted to involve the Park Coordinator and
have that person up to speed.
Chair Arnst concurred, stating that it made little sense to hold the conference prior to that date, since the
City had many things to accomplish that precede the meeting.
Meyers questioned when the supposed MCES scheduling meeting took place in the past
Brown indicated that meeting was to have taken place in March.
Meyers asked why the City doesn't have their meeting in March as well.
i Chair Arrest stated that the City Administrator had recommended they hold the meeting sooner.
Callies asked if the purpose of the meeting was to introduce the new Park Coordinator to the sports
organizations and begin the scheduling process.
In general, Brown cited the need to advertise and get the Park Coordinator on board, compile the
information packets, advertise the meeting to the sports organizations, and familiarize the Coordinator
with Policy and Parks prior to the meeting date.
Meyers stated that the Commission agreed there was much to accomplish before the sports informational
meeting.
Due to the amount of lead time required, Brown suggested the meeting be scheduled for February.
Since the sports organizations would like a meeting now, Chair Arnst asked Brown to communicate to the
sports organizations letting them know where the City was with respect to the position and the meeting.
Callies questioned why the organizations were pushing for a meeting now, when what had occurred in the
past happened in March.
Chair Arrest maintained that the organizations were apprehensive about what the new policy would mean
to them. Since they are used to getting the fields and times they want, they are afraid they won't end up
with what they need. She encouraged Brown to include the meeting date in the letter and tell them what to
expect at the meeting, introduction to the Park Coordinator, policy, and scheduling.
PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2002
Page 4 of 8
Brown stated that he appreciated the Commission's patience and asked for an alternate date.
Young stated that he felt it unfair to launch a new person, in the Park Coordinator position, without
adequate time to prepare.
Brown agreed, stating that it would be a poor choice for the City not to bring this person up to speed, after
devoting all the time and effort into creating the position and policy in the first place.
The Commission agreed upon Wednesday, February 5th, 2003 for the meeting.
Chair Arnst asked if the City had let MCES know that they were not going to be handling the sports
scheduling any longer.
Brown indicated that he would send a letter to MCES letting them know that the City would be handling
their own field scheduling.
Chair Amst requested the Commission be supplied with copies of the MCES and sports organization
letter.
Meyers asked where and when the Park Coordinator position would be advertised.
Brown stated that the position would be advertised in November in the local paper and on the website.
Chair Arnst suggested they advertise through the Minnesota Park and Recreation Association as well.
6. MASTER PLAN REVIEW - Koegler
A. Discuss plan for finalizing and recommendations to Council
Since Mark Koegler was not present and the Park Plan draft had just arrived, Chair Arnst recommended
the Commissioners take ten minutes to review the proposal. Chair Arnst indicated that her intention
would have been for the Commissioners to preview this in advance of the meeting, discuss the changes
this evening, and forward the document to Council by the end of the year. At this time, Chair Arnst noted
that they would have one more meeting to finalize the plan before sending it to Council on December 16,
2002.
The Commission reviewed the Plan page by page.
In general, Davis suggested that references to MCES throughout the plan be removed.
CF -2: Chair Arnst questioned item #15, periodic studies.
Brown stated that the document would not remain idle, and would be subject to review, as is the
Comprehensive Plan.
Brown commented on the use of the term "mini- park ", and questioned where the language for this came
from.
PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2002
Page 5 of 8
Chair Arnst asked where, in general, the "classification system" came from and why it was included in the
plan at all. She added that the Skate Park had been entirely missing from the report.
CF -3: Bartlett asked if horseback riding or snowmobiling were allowed uses in the City of Shorewood.
Brown stated that horseback riding is allowed by permit.
CF-4: The Commission agreed that the general classification system was unnecessary, and should be
removed from the report, whereas the Existing Park Classification system would suffice.
CF -5 : Chair Arnst reiterated the need to include the Southshore Community Park, skate park, within the
existing park plan and felt the park sizes should be checked for accuracy.
Chair Arnst felt the maps were somewhat out of sequence or oddly placed and believed more
consideration should be given to their placement within the document.
CF -7 : It should be noted that the hockey warming house contains restrooms.
Davis suggested the "tot lot" reference be changed throughout the document to playground.
CF - 11: As the ownership agreement had been located, it was recommended that the property ownership
paragraphs be removed.
Callies questioned what concession stand the plan referred to at Cathcart.
Chair Arnst recommended that once staff confirms that the concession stand symbol has been removed
from all existing maps, the reference to a concession stand should be removed altogether.
CF -13: Unorganized activities was changed to informal activities.
The last line, adopted was changed to maintained.
CF- 19: Meyer suggested the fields simply be labeled softball, baseball, and Babe Ruth fields, in an
attempt to broaden the terminology.
Callies suggested they remove the first two lines of the Deficiencies in Service paragraph.
CF -20: Change investigating to implementing in the first paragraph.
CF -21: Brown recommended they revamp the Park Scheduling paragraph altogether to indicate that in-
house scheduling began in 2003.
Overall, Chair Arnst reiterated the Commission's desire to include the survey results and feedback from
the open house. She further suggested that the use of adjectives be limited, wordiness be pared down, and
the map placement be improved.
Meyer suggested that the Commissioners be given an opportunity to preview the revised Plan prior to the
next Commission meeting on December 10, 2002.
PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2002
Page 6 of 8
Since the City is paying for the service, Chair Amst indicated that she would expect the Commissioners
be given an opportunity to preview the changes made this evening prior to the next meeting.
7. REVIEW HISTORY OF TRAIL PLANNING PROCESS AND SPECIFICALLY,
SMITHTOWN ROAD EVALUATION
Meyers questioned why the Commission had not received information in their packet regarding the
Smithtown Road trail planning process.
Brown shared with the Commission the history behind the Smithtown Road Trail Planning Process. In
essence, Brown stated that the City had attempted to approach homeowners to ask them to donate their r-
ow to build a trail. Homeowners, in turn, asked to see specifics regarding how much of their land they
would be donating before committing to the easement. The City has since generated plans, with the help
of WSB, and would like the Park Commission to host an Open House to get a better sense of people's
reactions and whether they would be inclined to approve the easements. In the past, the west enders have
been in favor of a trail, while the vocal east enders have adamantly opposed a trail. The Commission
would need to reassure the east enders that the proposed trail does not effect them.
Chair Arnst asked what the City would do if only half supported trail construction. She added that, likely,
the east enders would attend and try to dissuade the west enders of supporting a trail at all.
Brown indicated that the Park Commission should then make a recommendation to the City Council based
on this kind of feedback. With regard to the 5 east end households, Brown reiterated the need to reassure
them that the trail does not include them even though they don't believe it. 0
Chair Arnst maintained that the Commissioners would not be required to answer any questions they didn't
know. She pointed out that there would be people like Brown, Bailey, and Dave Hutton, of WSB, present
to field questions. Chair Arnst felt an informal open house format would lend itself better to collecting
information, names, addresses, and trail position.
Young inquired if other communities had guidelines to follow, since this process could feasibly go on
forever. He asked when the City would decide to let it go.
Brown believed that the "429" process, where decisions can be made based on 55% on a petition would
dictate here where to go. He indicated that, based on his investigation, all other communities are facing
similar battles.
Young questioned whether the funds were even available to proceed with a trail of this magnitude or
expense.
Brown stated that the City has $1.7 million in state aid funding available, which can be used towards the
redevelopment of Smithtown, including the trail. The entire cost of which is estimated at $1.5 million.
Chair Arnst asked if there would be assessments for any of the residents.
Brown pointed out that County Road 19 is also a state aid project, and based on problems regarding the
liquor store operations, the costs are steadily increasing from $3 to $4 million. While there are many
PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2002
Page 7 of 8
demands for state aid funds, the state is threatening Shorewood either use their dollars or they will end up
losing them in the near future.
Brown pointed out that new legislation has allowed Cities to bond for local roadway improvements, which
may impact how we do road improvement projects in the future. Due to the political environment with
Tonka Bay regarding the Liquor Store, Brown questioned the viability of the County Road 19 intersection
project at this time.
Chair Arnst suggested the Commission set a date for the Open House and educate themselves in the
interim.
Callies asked whether people might have questions regarding the Smithtown Road improvements as well.
Brown indicated that, despite the trail issue, the City Council has said the roadway work would be done in
2003.
Chair Arnst reiterated the importance of telling people the total cost to them and asked Brown if he would
know by the Open House whether there was to be assessments.
Brown stated that he felt that he could say with great certainty that the residents would not be assessed.
Young asked if the west end neighbors would be able to see specifically how much land they would have
to give up to decide if they want a trail or not.
Brown stated that the trail would be clearly marked on the north side with precise measurements. This
would provide the residents with new information they asked for previously.
Young questioned if specific invitations would go out to every household.
Brown reiterated that the City needs to walk a fine line by offering up this great amount of detail without
offending people that this is a specific proposal.
Meyers suggested they add language that recognizes this proposal is what the residents had asked for. By
stating that, based on previous open houses and resident feedback, the City has put together a new plan.
Chair Arnst asked Brown to have Callies review the invitation before it is sent out to make sure that any
controversial language is pulled out.
A. Discuss date for neighborhood open house
In lieu of the January Park Commission meeting, the Open House will be held on Tuesday, January 14,
2003, from 5:30 - 7:00 P.M. at the South Shore Center.
8. DETERMINE PARK LIAISON TO CITY COUNCIL FOR DECEMBER
November 25 - Davis
• December 16 - Callies
PARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2002
Page 8 of 8
9. NEW BUSINESS
There was none.
10. ADJOURNMENT
Meyer moved, Bartlett seconded, adjourning the Park Commission Meeting of November 13,
2002, at 8:55 P.M. Motion passed 6/0.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
Kristi Anderson
Recording Secretary
•
•
MEMORANDUM
Hoisington Koegler Group Inc.
HK
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To:
From:
Subject:
Date:
Shorewood Park Commission and Staff
Mark Koegler
Park Master Plan
December 4, 2002
DEC 3
�!k y
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•
•
The attached Master Plan draft contains all of the revisions requested by the Park Commission with one
exception. The park classification information has been retained since it is part of the existing adopted
Comprehensive Plan. It has been included in chart form rather than the text form found in the first draft.
The intent of the Park Master Plan is that it will be adopted and incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan.
Therefore, Park Master Plan contains some of the text currently found in the Comprehensive Plan.
123 North Third Street, Suite 100, Minn
Ph (612) 338 -0800 Fx (612) 338 -683
Direct (612) 252 -7120 Email mkoeglei ►
Parks and Recreation 0
At present, the Shorewood park system contains five major park facilities and a number of
smaller areas that provide additional recreational opportunities. The park system contains
approximately 100 acres of usable recreation land. Additional land that is part of the park
system is not suitable for active development. These areas, which contain wetlands or steep
terrain, compliment the overall active park system by providing substantial areas of open space.
Park and Open Space Policies
The following policies are intended to help guide future decisions pertaining to park and
recreation areas.
1. Shorewood's park and recreational open space system shall be classified in accordance
with standards established by the Metropolitan Council.
2. The allocation of funds for park improvements for specific facilities will be made on the
basis of balancing overall community park needs with the specific needs of each facility.
3. The community shall provide for an appropriate balance among active, passive and
cultural recreational areas and activities, tailored to the needs of Shorewood's total
population.
4. Recreational facilities and a year -round program of activities suited to the varied Is
recreational needs of all age groups within the community shall be provided.
5. Usable open space suitable for recreational activities shall be provided in all types of
residential developments.
6. Parks and recreational facilities shall be distributed throughout the community, based
upon neighborhood needs and characteristics of each planning and development district.
7. Sufficient park land to fulfill the needs of the present and future population of the
community shall be acquired and preserved. Park development shall be undertaken as
residential development demands and as funds are available.
8. Recreational open space improvements shall be programmed in accordance with a capital
improvement program, updated on an annual basis.
9. Parks shall be designed and maintained with proper lighting, landscaping, shelter design,
etc., to ensure a high degree of public safety and protection for public property.
10. Where necessary, parks shall be screened, fenced and/or buffered for the safety and
protection of the user as well as the adjacent property owners.
I]
12/02 CF -1
11. Parks shall be improved and developed to take maximum advantage of natural features of
the city of Shorewood.
12. Safe and convenient pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular access, and adequate parking to
serve recreational facilities shall be provided.
13. The use of motorized recreational vehicles shall be limited to designated areas.
14. Park and open space facilities and programming shall be planned and developed in
cooperation and coordinated with similar services of surrounding communities, the
school district, private organizations and the metropolitan area as a whole.
15. Studies on a periodic basis shall be undertaken to analyze the effectiveness and
comprehensiveness of the community recreation program. These studies should serve as
the basis for recreation open space planning and programming.
16. Continual citizen participation in planning, development and operation of recreational
open space shall be maintained.
Classification System
Shorewood has a variety of different types of parks that are components of the overall park
system. As a basis for examining existing parks and projecting future park needs, this plan
utilizes the regional system of park classification. Table 1 provides detail on the classification
system.
Existing System Analysis
Shorewood is approaching full development. Over the next twenty years (2020), the
Metropolitan Council projects that the community's population will increase by 150 people.
Given the fact that the City is not expected to see significant additional residential growth and
the fact that few vacant land parcels remain in the community, Shorewood is not expected to add
new park sites. The existing parks are considered adequate in size and location to meet the
future needs of the community.
Shorewood residents are generally well served by the existing park system. With the exception
of the islands and a small pocket south of Galpin Lake, most areas of the community are within a
' /2 to one -mile radius of neighborhood park facilities. As a result, the focus of future park
planning will be on developing existing parks, as opposed to acquiring more land, with one
possible exception. Some local athletic organizations have expressed interest in possibly
expanding facilities in Freeman Park. The City remains open to considering organization-
supported expansion of the park as well as other existing sites as need dictates and funding
allows. Also, as land becomes available through tax forfeiture, vacation of public right -of -way,
donations and/or other means, it will be examined for possible inclusion in the park system.
12/02 CF -2
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12/02 CF -3
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Table 1: Classification System for Local and Regional Facilities
Component Use Service Area Size Site Attributes S Location
Local Facilities
Mini-Park Specialized facilities that serve a concentrated or limited less than %mile < 1 acre
population or specific group such as tots or senior citizens; radius
may be in locations such as apartment complexes,
townhouse developments or commercial centers
.p
Neighborhood Area for intense recreational activities such as field games, % to % mile < 25 acres Physiography suited for Proximity to elementary
Park/Playground court games, crafts, apparatus area, skating, neighborhood radius to serve a intense development. schools.
centers. population of
4,000 — 5,000
(one
neighborhood)
Community Area for intense recreational facilities such as athletic fields 3-5 25 — 50 acres
Playfieki and swimming pools; could include neighborhood use. neighborhoods or
one community
Physiography suited for
intense development.
Proximity to secondary
schools and other
public facilities.
Community Park Area of natural or ornamental quality for outdoor recreation 3-5 25 —100 acres
such as walking, viewing, sitting, picnicking; could have neighborhoods or
some field and court games. one community
County Park Area of natural or ornamental quality for outdoor recreation County 25 —100 aces
such as walking, viewing, sitting, picnicking; could have
some field and court games_
Affords natural features
with varied physiographic
interest.
Proximity to Comm unity
facilities and resources.
Affords natural features Proximity to community
with varied physiographic facilities and resources
interest. and/or where resource
occurs.
Conservancy Area of natural quality such as watercourses and wetlands Municipality, Variable, based Natural resources that Where resource occurs.
Lands that are preserved for environmental or aesthetic benefits township, county on extent of merik preservation and
to the community and/or because of the negative resources. that would be negatively
environmental or economic effects of development in then. affected by deve lopment
N
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Table 1: Classification System for Local and Regional Facilities: continued
Component Use Service Area Size Site Attributes Site Location
Regional
Facilities
t'1
to
Regional Park Area of natural or ornamental quality for nature - oriented 3-6
outdoor recreation such as picnicking, boating, fishing, communities
swimming, camping and tral uses.
Regional Park Area of natural quality for nature-oriented outdoor County, m ulti-
Reserve recreation such as viewing and studying nature, wildlife county area.
habitat, conservation, swimming, picnicking, hiking,
boating, camping and trail uses.
Local or
Regional
Linear Park (trails, Area developed for one or more varying modes of
corridors, recreational travel such as hlcig, biking, snowmobiing,
parkways) horseback riding, cross- country sking, canoeing and
driving.
200 — 500 acres
(100 acre
minimum)
1000 + acres;
sufficient area to
encompass the
resource
envisioned for
preservation
Local -
Sufficient width to
(municipalities,
provide maximum
townships)
protection of
Regional —
resource and
(county ormultf
maximum use;
county area).
sufficient length
to accomplish
PUMM-
Complete natural setting
contiguous to water
bodies or water courses
where possible.
Diversity of unique
resources, such as
topography, lakes,
streams, marshes, flora,
fauna.
UtIze human-made
and/or natural linear
resources such as utility
corridors, rights-of -way,
drainage ways, bluff
lines, vegetation patterns
and roads.
Where natural resource
occurs — particularly
water. '
Where resource occurs.
Where linear resource
occurs. Link
components of
recreation system. Link
other community
facilities such as
schools, libraries and
commercial areas.
Special Features Area that preserves, maintains and provides specialized or Local — Specific standard Appropriate to particular Where most
single - purpose recreational activities such as golf course, (municipalities, applicabel to special feature. advantageous for the
nature center, marina, zoo ,conservatory, arboretum, townships) desired feature. special feature and the
display gardens, arena, gun dub, downhl ski area, and Regional — overall park system.
saes of historic or archeological signIfikanoe. (metropolitan
area).
Existing Park Classifications
Considerable planning has gone into Shorewood's park system. Master plans for each of the
City's parks have been prepared. These master plans considered the classification system for
local and regional parks that was previously identified in this plan. The following is an overview
of Shorewood's existing park classifications:
Neighborhood Parks. Four of Shorewood's existing parks — Cathcart, Badger, Manor and
Silverwood — fall into this category. In addition, facilities at Freeman Park also serve the nearby
neighborhoods, as do facilities at Minnewashta School.
Community Playfields. The Minnetonka School District has historically been heavily involved
in providing playfields for local recreation. Specifically, in Shorewood, Minnewashta
Elementary School functions in part as a community playfield. Freeman Park is viewed as
satisfying the majority of the community's need for playfields.
Community Park. Besides its neighborhood functions, Freeman Park is the only community
park in the Shorewood park system. Given the proximity of various regional parks, the need for
an additional community park in Shorewood is not anticipated.
Conservancy Lands. Shorewood's wetland system, while not suitable for active recreation, is
preserved for its aesthetic value, as well as its environmental benefit.
Special Uses. South Shore Community Park, Crescent Beach and the Christmas Lake access on
Merry Lane are essentially single - purpose recreational facilities — a skate park, access to Lake
Minnetonka and Christmas Lake, respectively. Crescent Beach is used exclusively for
swimming, while the Christmas Lake access is used for fishing and boat launching. Both sites
provide winter access to the lakes.
Shorewood Park System — Existing Parks and Plan Recommendations
Shorewood's park system is shown on page CF -3. Eight sites constitute the core of the present
system. They include:
Cathcart Park
4.8 acres
Freeman Park
67.8 acres
Badger Park (including City Hall)
10.2 acres
Crescent Beach (joint use with Tonka Bay)
.4 acres
Manor Park
4.5 acres
Silverwood Park
8.1 acres
South Shore Community Park
3.4 acres
Merry Lane Access
.5 acres
Total 99.7 acres
12/02 CF -6
In addition to these parks, other recreational facilities exist, including a playground at the
Minnewashta Elementary School and a semi - public golf course on the south side of Smithtown
Road, west of Country Club Road. Several old fire lanes, which have been held by the City, also
provide limited recreational opportunities to various neighborhoods. The City has also adopted a
Trail Plan as shown in the Transportation Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan.
The following is an overview of each of the primary parks and recommendations for future
improvements:
Badger Park
Badger Park is a neighborhood park focusing on organized sports, with limited individual/pick-
up opportunities.
Facilities include:
• Hockey rink/warming house (doubles as practice facility for soccer players in season)
• Family skating rink
• Playground equipment
• Tennis court
• Picnic tables
• Open space, mowed and natural wooded area
• Two community adopt -a- gardens
• Portable restrooms (no running water)
• Paved parking shared with South Shore Senior Center
• Short nature trail looping through wooded area on the east edge of the park
• Pedestrian bridge leading to the wooded area over a small stream
Population served: Primarily youth
Deficiencies in service and/or opportunity:
Senior population The facilities in the park show a deficiency in services to adult, or
senior adult populations. Although this facility adjoins a community center used largely
by seniors, there are no activities for the senior population.
Parking Space is shared with the South Shore Center and Shorewood City Hall. There
is conflict between the South Shore Center and football events.
Old bridge: Limits use of wood chip loop trail through woodland.
Recommendations for further action:
Explore a partnership with South Shore Center for idea gathering concerning
enhancements for the senior population and for the marketability of the Center.
Commence discussions with the South Shore Center regarding the parking conflict.
Coordinate scheduling of football events w /South Shore events, or overlap in scheduling
of football events in the same night to alleviate parking concerns
12/02 CF -7
Other Discussion: The Park Commission held considerable discussion focusing on two issues
is within this park: (1) the compatibility of football activities with the South Shore Center and (2)
exploring a "partnership" with the Center to enhance the park facility for more diverse users.
The football facility is important to the community and if not located at Badger, the City would
have an obligation to locate it in another park, most likely, Freeman. Moving the field presents
both budget and space problems. Since there have been no neighborhood complaints regarding
the noise or light generated by the games, the football field is expected to remain permanently in
Badger Park.
The South Shore Center is a likely partner for the park. They share parking space and often
activities held at the Center spill over into the park. The relationship between Badger Park and
the South Shore Senior Center should be further explored to determine how the facility could
better serve as both a neighborhood park and an asset for the senior center.
The tennis courts at Badger Park are frequently used for lessons, by teams and individuals.
Additionally, the City will continue to explore an offer by a local garden club to enhance the
nature loop trail in the woodland area. This would be accomplished through the planting of
native wild flowers in undisturbed areas by the garden club.
•
U
SHUN ^_
PARK
Ff
NOIT R�
Badger Park serves both the
surrounding neighborhood and
the South Shore Senior Center
12/02 CF -8
Badger Park
Cathcart Park
Cathcart Park is a neighborhood park with a mix of uses, including organized sports and individual/pick -
up opportunities.
Facilities include:
• Little League baseball field
• Hockey rink/warming house (doubles as
practice facility for soccer players in
season)
• Family skating rink
• Basketball court
• Magic square
• Playground equipment
• Tennis court
• Picnic tables
• Open space
• Community adopt -a- garden
• Portable restrooms (no running water)
• Paved parking for 3 8 vehicles
-e' I S . �
•
12/02 CF -9
•
Population served:
• Cathcart Park focuses primarily on
the activities of youth and young
adults, i.e., hockey, Little League,
soccer.
• It serves the neighborhood and
through the organized sports, a
wider range of youth in the
community.
• There appears to be a deficiency in
service to senior citizens.
• While the tennis court offers
opportunity to adults, it is
uncertain to what extent the court
is used.
ME
-'�'
ruaNa
CATHCARRTT
PARK
6' r NOR
•
•
Deficiencies in service andlor opportunity:
62ND 8T W
• The facilities in the park show a deficiency in services to adult, or senior adult
populations.
• There are a limited number of designated parking spaces. Parking reaches critical mass
during Little League games. As a result vehicles park along Cathcart Drive or West 62 °d
Street in "no parking" areas.
• Lack of natural open space because of space limitations
Recommendations for further action:
■ Seniors
o Target senior audience - gather input.
■ Tennis court: Gather data to determine the use of the tennis court through:
• Neighbors
• Park employees
• Passive survey (in newsletter)
• Public open house
IN Parkina:
• Gather data to determine parking needs
• Consider discussions with Minnewashta Church to use parking facilities
• Coordinate scheduling of Little League and soccer events to lessen parking
problems
■ Remove the "concession stand" from the current Master Plan
12/02 CF -10
• Consider closer management of the windbreak on the south edge of the park to prevent
interference with activities and damage to turf of ball field.
• Installation of a warning track before the tree line.
Other Discussion: Overall, Cathcart Park makes good use of its available space in offering a
variety of activities, although the site has a deficiency in natural open space. Due to surrounding
land use constraints, that deficiency cannot be rectified. There are no opportunities for further
facility development or land additions to this park.
It is recommended that the Little League field remain as is, and not be considered for expansion
because of space and parking considerations. Removal of the currently designated "concession
stand" is also recommended because there is not enough use, nor is there sewer, water, or
electricity available parking to support such a structure.
Manor Park
Manor is a neighborhood park focusing on informal activities, with very limited organized sports
opportunities.
Facilities include:
• Pond skating rink/warming house
• Playground equipment
• Tennis court
• Picnic tables and shelter
• Open space, mowed
• One community adopt -a- garden
• Portable restrooms
• Water fountain
• Parking for 23 vehicles
• Softball field
• Shirley Rice Memorial Garden
(maintained by community volunteers)
Population served: Families, adults, and Little
League teams
Deficiencies in service and/or opportunity:
Tennis court It is questionable if this tennis court gets enough use to justify the cost of its
maintenance.
Volleyball court: Unknown if this facility is used.
Recommendations for further action:
■ Gather data to determine the use of the tennis and volleyball courts through:
•
PJ
12/02 CF -11
• Neighbors
o Park employees
• Passive survey (in newsletter)
• Public open house
•
•
Recommendations for change:
• Explore installation of horseshoe pits and bocce
ball
• Consider aeration of pond
Other Discussion: Historically, there has been concern about the infrequent use of the tennis
court at Manor Park. A review of tennis court usage is ongoing and after additional data has
been collected, the City will address whether or not to continue offering tennis in Manor Park.
The Rice family has contributed $2500 for the improvement of the Shirley Rice Memorial
garden, which is currently maintained by volunteer gardeners.
Silverwood Park
Silverwood is a small neighborhood park utilized by young children and their families.
Facilities include:
• Playground equipment
• Slide
• Sliding hill
• Free skate on the pond
• Community adopt -a- garden
• Portable restrooms (no running water)
• Picnic tables and grills
• Practice tennis court
• Basketball court
• Trail
• Paved parking
Population served: Silverwood Park serves
families with young children.
Deficiencies in service and/or opportunity:
• Practice tennis courts are in poor condition.
• Investigate the trail walkway.
12/02
CF -12
Recommendations for further action:
Consider replacing practice courts with
painted soccer net or magic square and
hopscotch.
Consider adding a warming house for
the free skaters.
Study use of the trail.
Freeman Park
Freeman Park is Shorewood's principal community park. Its 68 acres accommodate a wide
variety of both active and passive recreational activities.
Facilities include:
• Softball fields (3)
• Baseball fields (2)
• Babe Ruth baseball field
• Soccer fields (6+ - depending on field
layout)
• Volleyball Courts (2)
• Multi -use building (Eddy Station)
• Picnic shelter
• Playground (2)
• Picnic tables
• Trails
• Off - street parking for approximately 390 vehicles
Population served: Freeman Park serves a diverse population of users from the City of
Shorewood as well as residents of the Minnetonka School District. Because of the diverse range
of active and passive recreational facilities in the park, users are individuals of all ages. The
parks hosts baseball, softball and soccer games that are part of organized leagues. During the
non - winter seasons, Freeman Park serves approximately 138,000 users.
Deficiencies in service andlor opportunity:
At the present time, Freeman Park is somewhat the "victim of its own success." Problems such
as parking shortages have occurred because the park provides much needed facilities to serve
active youth and adult portions of the area population. It is intensively used for baseball, softball
and soccer, all of which tend to be activities that dominate the park during the summer months.
•
•
12/02 CF -13
•
•
�MAN
mm" aii
0 an 400 N 0 1t Z 8
•
12/02
CF -14
The park's intensive use for active recreational activities makes it difficult to for users to enjoy
the park for more passive pursuits. Picnicking and walking on the trails, for example, are less
popular activities during peak active times due to traffic congestion, noise, etc. Frequent trail
users typically use the park during off -peak active times such as early morning hours.
Maintaining a balance of active and passive facilities will continue to be a challenge in the years
ahead. The overall lack of readily available land in the area indicates that the active facilities in
the park will remain in place indefinitely. Assuming that to be the case, the City of Shorewood
will need to continue to try to find ways to accommodate a full range of both passive and active
uses in the park.
Parking and Circulation — Construction of the south parking lot will significantly
improve the supply of off -street parking. Access to various parking areas will continue to
be hindered by the lack of a roadway connection through the park. The City is
implementing additional scheduling controls and limitations that should help ease parking
problems during peak times. It is essential that an adequate supply of parking be
maintained in the park in order to accommodate the use of all park facilities.
Field #2 — Field #2 is located
access road. Netting protects
location of the field precludes
circulation through the park.
Recommendations for further action:
Since Freeman Park is Shorewood's primary community park, the community needs to have
input on the future of the park. The Shorewood Park Commission has discussed a number of
future park scenarios and an open house was held for area residents in July of 2002. The focus
of the open house was on adjacent neighbors, either those living along Eureka Road or residents
living in the senior housing area just south of the park. Further master planning for Freeman
Park will need to involve a larger audience from the Shorewood community.
Park Commission Review — The internal review of Freeman Park that was conducted by the
Shorewood Park Commission identified a number of facilities that were envisioned to be part of
the park's long -term future. Preferred facilities include:
• Concessions
• Walking Trails
• Multi -Use Building
• Wetland Trails
• Bike Trails
• Off -Street Parking
• Open Field Areas
• Totlots
• Lacrosse
• Baseball
between private property (abutting homes) and a closed
the adjacent homes from the intrusion of fly balls. The
the use of the adjacent access road, which complicates
•
12/02 CF -15
• Softball
• ■ Soccer
• Picnicking
• Horseshoes
This list continues to reflect a mix of active and passive recreational facilities in the park. Of the
items noted, Lacrosse is the only new activity on the list. Lacrosse was added to the list due to
the growing popularity of the sport, especially among young women.
In addition to those facilities identified as preferred (primary list) a number of other facilities
were identified as also worthy of future consideration. Of the items identified, a number of them
are game activities such as disk golf, badminton, croquet, and lawn bowling. Of these, disk golf
requires specialized facilities that may be hard to fit within the existing park. Badminton,
croquet and lawn bowling can be played in areas with high quality turf. Freeman Park currently
contains high quality, open turf areas that are irrigated. If desired, turf game areas could be
established by reducing the area now designated for soccer.
The secondary list of possible facilities in Freeman Park contains a number of other types of
uses. Items such as flower gardens, fountains, and a dog park were also suggested for
consideration.
■ Public Involvement — Gather community -wide input on existing uses and desired
future park uses involving:
• o Neighbors
o Passive Surveys (newsletter, web page, etc.)
o Public Open House
■ Park Scheduling — A review of overall park usage and a detailed examination of off -
street parking revealed the need to better coordinate the scheduling of activities in the
park. In -house scheduling of all Freeman Park activities will begin in 2003.
•
12/02 CF -16
South Shore Community Park
South Shore Community Park is as unique of a recreational facility as the process that led to its
creation. Based on comments from area youth that a skate park was needed in the South Lake
area, the City of Shorewood organized a consortium of five communities to address the need.
Working with the cities of Deephaven, Excelsior, Greenwood and Tonka Bay, Shorewood
coordinated the acquisition of the site and the construction of a Tier 1 skate facility. The project
was completed and opened in the summer of 2001.
Facilities include:
■ Half pipe
■ Grinder rails
W�
�no
■ Ramps
■ Paved area for skateboards and in -line
skates
Population Served.• Primarily youth
Deficiencies in service and/or opportunity: Since
few models exist for skate parks in the local area,
the City has been working with users since the
skate facility opened to address operational issues.
At the present time, the park has no known major
deficiencies
SKATE
PARK
"
. go 110 ■I �
Recommendations for further action: Investigate the possible addition of horseshoe pits and a
picnic area in the park.
Community Input
In October of 2002, the City of Shorewood held an open house to seek public input on existing
parks. Attendees were asked to provide comments on features in parks that they enjoy the most,
features that they enjoy the least, and general suggested changes. In general, participants
expressed strong support and satisfaction with the existing park system. Other comments noted
include:
Freeman Park — The trail system, open spaces and playgrounds were frequently mentioned as
facilities that users enjoy in Freeman Park. Also mentioned was the ability to either watch or
participate in baseball games. The only negative comments noted regarding Freeman Park
pertain to water standing over trail areas after periods of heavy rains. Participants suggested
adding tennis courts and an ice skating rink to Freeman Park.
Silverwood Park — Silverwood Park was praised by participants for providing family activities.
•
•
•
12/02 CF -17
• General Recommendation
The City should continue to work with adjacent communities and the School District to maintain
a clear understanding of the total recreational needs of the area. The South Shore area has a
highly cooperative recreational and transportation system that will continue to require constant
coordination (playfields, parks, and trails). The Park Commission and City Council should
continue to monitor the needs of area residents in implementing the park and recreation plan.
The City will also need to continue responding to the strong local interest for the expansion of
the Shorewood trail system.
•
•
12/02 CF -18
Appendix
CITY OF SHOREWOOD PARKS SURVEY RESULTS
Oct -02
1. Are you a resident of Shorewood? Yes 51 No ❑
2. How many people In the following age ranges live in your household?
Under 5 F 14 12 -May = 13 -17 = 18 -24 10
25-44 F 35 45-64 45 65+ 10
3. Which Shorewood Parks have you and /or a member of your house vis ited in the last year?
Manor Park
Silverwood Park
Freeman Park
South Shore Comm.
Badger Park
Cathcart Park
Crescent Beach
Once
5
More than
once
more
than
10x
5
2
2
2
9
2
11
30
5
1
4
9
5
11
14
2
12
4
4. When are you most likely to use the park:
Early Morning 8
Mid -day 18
Afternoon 26
Evening 18
We avoid the park altogether during the day because of the teams driving the spring to fall.
We love Freeman Park - the trails, nature, wild animals, birds, etc.
S. What activities do you and/or a member of your household do when you visit a Shorewood Park?
Hike/Walk 27 Jog /Run 11 Tennis 8 Baseball /Softball 8
Picnic 10 Sit/Relax 13 Playground 27 Skate Boarding 1
Walk Dog 17 Roller blading 2 Soccer 15 Basketball 3
Volleyball 1 Hockey 5 Ice Skating 13 Sledding 9
Bicycle 21 Swimming 16 MCES 3 School Related 4
Other 4 (Cross Country Skiing) (gardens
S. Which of the following facilities have you used in Shorewood Parks:
Restrooms ® Concessions 14 Picnic Shelter r Drinking Fountains Q
7. Overall, how would you rate the recreational opportunities provided in Shorewood parks?
Excellent 0 Good =
Adequate ® Needs impr.
L�
•
•
12/02 CF -19
•
•
•
Comments:
We'd like more bike trails.
For teams and children. We walk dogs or ride our bikes on the trail to Freeman. We appreciate the poop bags
& the many garbage cansl
Could use more programs other than MCES sports programs.
Concession stand at Freeman (near Hwy 7) is disgusting - needs running waterl
Freeman is excellent!
Would like to see a paved trail from LRT to Freeman, the spot where everyone pushes stroller over the grass
to get to playground.
I believe the city spends more than enough money for park facilities. Residents can & should be responsible for
their own entertainment.
Need to improve Little League restroom facilities.
8. How would you rate the maintenance of Shorewood Park facilities?
Excellent ® Good ® Adequate = Needs Impr. =
Comments:
Thanks to those who plant flowers.
Aside from a tipped -over biff at the little league park we never seen a blade of grass out of place.
Dogs should not be allowed in our parks.
More trash receptacles on woods trail entrances to Freeman.
With lots of help from teams using the facilitiesl
Thanks for keeping the pond clear for ice skating at Silverwoodl
Better than necessary, small use (by public) of Manor Pk Pond for skating. Does_00 warrant expensive maintenance.
The parks always look good & in good repair. In winter good plowing & ice clearing at Silverwood.
9. Do you or members of your family participate in organized recreation or MCES programs in the parks?
Yes 17 No F 33
10. Do you or members of your family regularly use park facilities or roe programs in other communities?
Yes ® No 22
Please explain services used:
Hiking, Biking at Carver, Baker, Elm Creek, Hyland & Lk Mtka Regional Pk. Also, Purgatory, Bill Willow. Mn
Valley Nat'l Wildlife spots (Hiking, nature observe.).
Carver County Pk (Lk Minnewashta).
X- Country ski at Baker & Carver City Parks, swim and hike.
We use Minnewashta Pk several times a week to walk our dogs - ride the Luce Line on bikes.
Walk with dog Excelsior Commons.
Beaches - Swimming & playground.
Chaska & Chanhassen - swim programs & mens softball.
Hiking - Carver Pk.
MN Arboretum, school dist. Sport fields, Minnehaha Park, French Pk, Carver Pk Preserve.
Play sports at other fields.
Soccer, walking, playing.
Playground, softball.
Live on Enchanted Island and so Shorewood Pks are not relevant. Tennis,golf(henn. Cty), Norenberg, Arboretum
Hiking, biking, concerts, skiing, swimming.
It would be nice if we had a family comm. ctr. that would have all functions in one bldg.SvAmming services at Chaska.
12/02
CF -20
Mtka Regional Pk swimming & playground.
Eden Prairie has some pks that are more innovative, creative, & unique!! Miller Pk, Staring Lk. E.P. has great
ECFE.
Manitou Park - our house adjoins the park.
Henn Pk - X-C skiing, hiking, snow shoeing, nature related classes
Boat launch, Tee -ball
Soccer, baseball
Excelsior Commons and beach.
Swimming beaches, hockey, baseball/softball.
Excelsior Lakes, Picnics; Eden Prairie - playgrounds for younger children.
Baseball, Soccer.
Baseball games.
Soccer fields, skateboard parks, hiking trails, bicycle paths.
11. Do you or membere of your family want to see more program opportunities or services In Shorewood Parks?
Yes ® No
12. If yea, please share your Ideas:
More swings geared for 2 and under (bucket seats) than just one per park.
Lets get that biking/walking trail down Smithtown to 19. PleaselI I
We enjoy Freeman Park. Thank you for extending the walking /bike path along Eureka to Freeman.
More walking, running, biking trails.
Winter - sleigh rides, snowshoeing.
Would like to see water fountain left on more - They never seem to be workingll
Ice skating opportunities are limited. Ice rinks need to be better maintained - once I was told if my
family wanted to skate we had to shovel the snow off the ice. Warming houses should be open.more
One request is that the Silverwood Pk have some water fountains installed.
We need safe access for biking and running - trail along Smithtown Rd.
Better winter facility at Cathcart (could be used all year). We need safe trails to our parks. We need a •
trail along Smithtownll
More availability of softball fields in Freeman Park for girls softball.
Could use a trail for walking, biking along the road on Enchanted & Shady Islands.
It would be nice if we had a similar comm. Ctr.as Chaska would be nice if a bike path connected the LRT to
Freeman by soccer field and have a bike trail from Victoria border on Smithtown all the way to the Tonka Bay
Community programs for children under 5.
Shorewood has a lack of quality soccer fields, please make more space available.
Tee -ball at Freeman Pk.
I don't mind paying taxes for basic, necessary services, however not every one can afford luxuries. If people
want fancy parks, services, etc. I believe they should be responsible for the costs.
It would be nice to have a drinking fountaintrestroom with running 1-12o at the parks that don't have them.
Drinking fountains or pump at Cathcart, along LRT trail.
Provide hockey rink and a large free skating area at Freeman. Move football field from Badger to Freeman. Provide lights at
Freeman for football, soccer and softball. Convert Badger to a neighborhood park with fields for games.
Want the ice rink in Freeman Park Opened.
The facilities at the Little League fiedls are inadequate - needs a lot of improvementl
13 year old baseball on a field with 75' bases.
For the dog walks I really appreciate the doggie bag dispensers - Thank you. Could you please provide a trash can near the pai
We need more soccer fields.
Community Band Concerts.
•
12/02 CF -21
To: Park Commission
From: Twil t6''
Date: December 4, 2002
Re: Park Survey Results
Attached is the final results of the park survey that was done in October for your review.
If you have any questions let me know.
•
CITY OF SHOREWOOD PARKS SURVEY RESULTS
Oct -02
1. Are you a resident of Shorewood? Yes 52 No ❑
2. How many people in the following age ranges live in your household?
Under 5 14
25 -44 35
3. Which Shorewood
Manor Park
Silverwood Park
Freeman Park
South Shore Comm.
Badger Park
Cathcart Park
Crescent Beach
5-12F
45 -64 47
-k(s) have
Once
5
2
3
4
2
13 -17 18 18 -24 10
65+ 10
u and /or a me mber of your househ vi sited in the last year?
4. When are you most likely to use the park:
Early Morning 8
Mid -day 19
Afternoon 26
Evening 18
We avoid the park altogether during the day because of the teams driving the spring to fall.
We love Freeman Park - the trails, nature, wild animals, birds, etc.
5. What activities do you and /or a member of your household do when you visit a Shorewood Park?
Hike/Walk 27 Jog /Run 11 Tennis 9 Baseball /Softball 9
Picnic 10 Sit/Relax 13 Playground 27 Skate Boarding 1
Walk Dog 17 Roller blading 2 Soccer 15 Basketball 3
Volleyball 1 Hockey 5 Ice Skating 14 Sledding 9
Bicycle 21 Swimming 16 MCES 3 School Related 4
Other 4 (Cross Country Skiing) (gardens)
6. Which of the following facilities have you used in Shorewood Parks:
Restrooms 28 Concessions 14 Picnic Shelter 19 Drinking Fountains =
7. Overall, how would you rate the recreational opportunities provided in Shorewood parks?
Excellent 14 Good 28 Adequate ® Needs Impr. 0
•
More than
once
more
than
1 O
5
2
2
9
11
30
6
1
9
5
12
14
12
4
4. When are you most likely to use the park:
Early Morning 8
Mid -day 19
Afternoon 26
Evening 18
We avoid the park altogether during the day because of the teams driving the spring to fall.
We love Freeman Park - the trails, nature, wild animals, birds, etc.
5. What activities do you and /or a member of your household do when you visit a Shorewood Park?
Hike/Walk 27 Jog /Run 11 Tennis 9 Baseball /Softball 9
Picnic 10 Sit/Relax 13 Playground 27 Skate Boarding 1
Walk Dog 17 Roller blading 2 Soccer 15 Basketball 3
Volleyball 1 Hockey 5 Ice Skating 14 Sledding 9
Bicycle 21 Swimming 16 MCES 3 School Related 4
Other 4 (Cross Country Skiing) (gardens)
6. Which of the following facilities have you used in Shorewood Parks:
Restrooms 28 Concessions 14 Picnic Shelter 19 Drinking Fountains =
7. Overall, how would you rate the recreational opportunities provided in Shorewood parks?
Excellent 14 Good 28 Adequate ® Needs Impr. 0
•
C omments:
'd like more bike trails.
or teams and children. We walk dogs or ride our bikes on the trail to Freeman. We appreciate the poop bags
& the many garbage cans!
Could use more programs other than MCES sports programs.
Concession stand at Freeman (near Hwy 7) is disgusting - needs running water!
Freeman is excellent!
Would like to see a paved trail from LRT to Freeman, the spot where everyone pushes stroller over the grass
to get to playground.
1 believe the city spends more than enough money for park facilities. Residents can & should be responsible for
their own entertainment.
Need to improve Little League restroom facilities.
8. How would you rate the maintenance of Shorewood Park facilities?
Excellent F Good 28 Adequate 0 Needs Impr. 0
Comments:
Thanks to those who plant flowers.
Aside from a tipped -over biff at the little league park we never seen a blade of grass out of place.
Dogs should not be allowed in our parks.
More trash receptacles on woods trail entrances to Freeman.
With lots of help from teams using the facilities!
Thanks for keeping the pond clear for ice skating at Silverwood!
Better than necessary, small use (by public) of Manor Pk Pond for skating. Does not warrant expensive maintenance.
it e parks always look good & in good repair. In winter good plowing & ice clearing at Silverwood.
9. Do you or members of your family participate in organized recreation or MCES programs in the parks?
Yes 18 No 33
10. Do you or members of your family regularly use park facilities or rec programs in other communities?
Yes F No 23
Please explain services used:
Hiking, Biking at Carver, Baker, Elm Creek, Hyland & Lk Mtka Regional Pk. Also, Purgatory, Bill Willow. Mn
Valley Nat'I Wildlife spots (Hiking, nature observe.).
Carver County Pk (Lk Minnewashta).
X- Country ski at Baker & Carver City Parks, swim and hike.
We use Minnewashta Pk several times a week to walk our dogs - ride the Luce Line on bikes.
Walk. with dog Excelsior Commons.
Beaches - Swimming & playground.
Chaska & Chanhassen - swim programs & mens softball.
Hiking - Carver Pk.
MN Arboretum, school dist. Sport fields, Minnehaha Park, French Pk, Carver Pk Preserve.
Play sports at other fields.
Soccer, walking, playing.
Playground, softball.
Live on Enchanted Island and so Shorewood Pks are not relevant. Tennis,golf(henn. Cty), Norenberg, Arboretum
iking, biking, concerts, skiing, swimming.
would be nice if we had a family comm. ctr. that would have all functions in one bldg.Swimming services at Chaska.
Mtka Regional Pk swimming & playground.
Eden Prairie has some pks that are more innovative, creative, & unique!! Miller Pk, Staring Lk
ECFE.
Manitou Park - our house adjoins the park.
Henn Pk - X -C skiing, hiking, snow shoeing, nature related classes
Boat launch, Tee -ball
Soccer, baseball.
Excelsior Commons and beach.
Swimming beaches, hockey, baseball /softball.
Excelsior Lakes, Picnics; Eden Prairie - playgrounds for younger children.
Baseball, Soccer.
Baseball games.
Soccer fields, skateboard parks, hiking trails, bicycle paths.
E.P. has great
•
11. Do you or members of your family want to see more program opportunities or services in Shorewood Parks?
Yes 21 No 23
12. If yes, please share your ideas:
More swings geared for 2 and under (bucket seats) than just one per park.
Lets get that biking /walking trail down Smithtown to 19. PleaseM
We enjoy Freeman Park. Thank you for extending the walking /bike path along Eureka to Freeman.
More walking, running, biking trails.
Winter - sleigh rides, snowshoeing.
Would like to see water fountain left on more - They never seem to be working!!
Ice skating opportunities are limited. Ice rinks need to be better maintained - once I was told if my
family wanted to skate we had to shovel the snow off the ice. Warming houses should be open more
One request is that the Silverwood Pk have some water fountains installed.
We need safe access for biking and running - trail along Smithtown Rd.
Better winter facility at Cathcart (could be used all year). We need safe trails to our parks. We need a
trail along Smithtown!!
More availability of softball fields in Freeman Park for girls softball.
Could use a trail for walking, biking along the road on Enchanted & Shady Islands.
It would be nice if we had a similar comm. Ctr.as Chaska would be nice if a bike path connected the LRT to
Freeman by soccer field and have a bike trail from Victoria border on Smithtown all the way to the Tonka Bay
Community programs for children under 5.
Shorewood has a lack of quality soccer fields, please make more space available.
Tee -ball at Freeman Pk.
I don't mind paying taxes for basic, necessary services, however not every one can afford luxuries. If people
want fancy parks, services, etc. I believe they should be responsible for the costs.
It would be nice to have a drinking fountain /restroom with running H2o at the parks that don't have them.
Drinking fountains or pump at Cathcart, along LRT trail.
Provide hockey rink and a large free skating area at Freeman. Move football field from Badger to Freeman.
Freeman for football, soccer and softball. Convert Badger to a neighborhood park with fields for games.
Want the ice rink in Freeman Park Opened.
The facilities at the Little League fiedls are inadequate - needs a lot of improvement!
13 year old baseball on a field with 75' bases.
For the dog walks I really appreciate the doggie bag dispensers - Thank you. Could you please provide a trash can near the pai
•
Provide lights at
We need more soccer fields.
Community Band Concerts.
•