1988 02 02 Agenda
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CITY 0 F
CBARBASSER
690 COULTER DRIVE. P.O. BOX 147 . CHANHASSEN, MINNESOTA 55317
(612) 937-1900
MEMORANDUM
TO: Park and Recreation Commission
FROM:
Lori Sietsema, Park and Recreation
coordina~
DATE:
January 29, 1988
SUBJ:
Next Scheduled Meeting
The Park and Recreation Commission will meet on Tuesday, February
2nd at 7:30 p.m. As we did not hold election of officers at the
last meeting, that will be our first order of business.
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Attached please find the recreation section of the Comprehensive
Plan with of the changes noted to date. Please review the plan
again as this will be your last chance to make any changes.
Also attached is a rough draft of the Five Year Capital Improve-
ment Program. This will be submitted to Council with the
finished Comprehensive Plan. As this is the first we will have
discussed this item, treat it as a "wish list" that will be
refined as we go. Please review the rough draft and bring your
additions, deletions, or changes to the meeting.
As the Comprehensive Plan is the only item to be discussed, this
should be a relatively short meeting. If you are unable to
attend, please let me know.
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Van Doren
Hazard
Stallings
Architects. Engineers- Planners
3030 Harbor Lane North
Bldg. II, Suite 104
Minneapolis, MN 55447-2175
612/553-1950
MEMORANDUM
TO: Park and Recreation Commission and Staff
FROM: Mark Koegler ~
DATE: January 20, 1988
SUBJECT:
Recreation Section - Comprehensive Plan Update
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Enclosed, please find a ~ompilation of changes to the recreation
section of the Chanhassen Comprehensive Plan update. Previous
changes are noted by numerals. Recent changes are modified in
the text and are also noted by letters.
Please note any final changes that you would like to make to this
document. A final draft copy will be available in the near
future as soon as typing and graphics are complete.
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The active and passive recreational needs of urban popu1a- ,
tions have been receiving increasing attention in recent years.'
As urban development has expanded and consumed large amounts .
of open land, pressure to provide parks and open space has '
intensified. This intensification has brought on a new
challenge - providing adequate living spaces for the popula-
tion while insuring that the overall living environment
remains both satisfying and stimulating. One way of
accomplishing this task is through the provision of adequate
park lands and open space areas.
As mentioned, recent years have brought on an increasing
demand for recreation. This intensified demand has been
caused primarily by overall increases in the population.
Population is not however, the only factor involved.
Increasing leisure time, greater mobility, and higher
disposable incomes have all contributed to increased rec-
reational demand. Demand factors are reviewed later in
this section.
For planning purposes, recreational lands and open space
areas are generally combined into one category. There is
however, a significant difference between the two. Parks
are typically defined as public areas which primarily
provide active oriented recreational facilities. A sig-
nificant characteristic of park land is accessibility to
it's users. Open space on the other hand, can be defined
in more general terms. In its broadest sense, open space
comprises any land parcel which is not used for buildings.
or in other words, the counterpart of development.
Essentially, parks and open space fulfill three functions.
First, they meet positive human needs both physically and
psychologically. Historically, parks and open space have
been justified on health grounds. These spaces provide
fresh air, sunlight, and areas for physical exercise all
of which provide the psychological release which has be-
come increasingly important to today's active and often
complex lifestyles.
Very little research has been done to quantify the psycho-
logical values of park and open space areas. The physical
attributes of these spaces are more readily apparent.
Jogging tracks, active game areas, and obstacle courses
provide facilities which can be utilized to directly benefit
human health. Aside from health benefits, parks and open
space can also enhance social interaction. The location
and design of open space and recreation areas can play an
important role in bringing people together such as in the
case of a neighborhood park. On the other hand, these
spaces can become barriers separating different uses or
neighborhoods depending on existing conditions and park
design.
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The second function of parks and open space areas is to
enhance and protect the resource base. Physical resources
such as air, water and soils are critical factors in the
provision of open space areas. Attention to these resources
in the planning stage can have many positive values and in
some cases, can alleviate future problems. By providing
open space which protects and preserves physical resources,
flood damage can be reduced, water supplies protected,
soils nourished and wildlife enhanced. The misuse of these
resources can result in devestation - soil erosion, polluted
waters, and severe flooding.
The third function of parks and open space concerns economics.
These facilities can have an impact on economic development
as indicated by tourism, development patterns, and real.
estate values. This funciton, although not critically
important to Chanhassen does have some significance to
the community. Several existing and proposed recreational
facilities pose an economic impact. Most notable among
this group are the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and the
M inn e \'I ash taR e g ion alP ark. . rJ.. ~ - L ~ ~ - .. - -- - ... , r L - ~ - lJ - -,. ~ - - ...l
Both of these facilities are regional in scope. As such,
they tend to draw users from the entire Metropolitan area
which results in increased service revenues to Chanhassen
businesses. Park and Arboretum users purchase gas, food,
and other miscellaneous items all of which benefit the
business community and the City as a whole.
On a smaller scale, the provision of parks, open space areas,
trailways, and greenbelt corridors have a positive impact
on residential property values. lots located on parks or
overlooking open space areas such as marshes frequently
appreciate at higher levels than other land located within
a community. A.. ....._...p'l... _f ll.l.. l......J I.. 1I.... 1_1...... .....-
. neapolis which is connected by an open s em
inclu rian, vehicular, and b' ccesses.
The residentia sur 1S area are some of
the choicest pieces 0 the City. In 1978,
fo r examp 1 e th is a rea appre rate of
32.6 a red to 19.3'; for the overa 11 Metrop
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The previous narrative has been intended to portray some
of the impacts that open spaces and parks can have upon
a community. The importance of the provision of park and
open space facilities should not be underestimated in the
overall development of a community. A definite link
exists between a city's amenities i.e. parks and the
soundness of other aspects of its life. The future of
cities will be determined to a significant degree, by
their ability to instill in people a positive desire to
live in them. Creating a balanced recreati'onal sy.stem i'5
one way in which a community can enhance this desire.
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Open Space Planning
- In providing recreational facilities for existing'and
future populations, first an analysis of scale must be
conducted. The end result of such an analysis should be
to determine which entity will be responsible for each
segment of the overall recreation system. To clarify
this, the Minneapolis Metropolitan Area can be used as
an example. Within the Metro area, parks can be class-
ified as being either federal, state, regional, local, or
private. Each of these types of parks provides varied
facilities which often concern only specific recreational
demands or user groups. Federal, state, and regional
parks can be grouped together since these facilities
typically provide for uses which are unavailable at
the local level. Examples include facilities for
hunting, camping, and special features such as nature
centers.
Local parks on the other hand, typically provide close
proximity facilities for active pursuits and additional
space for passive recreation. Typical activities include
tennis courts, ball diamonds, playgrounds, and open field
areas. The key ingredient for successful local parks is
quick, convenient access for user groups. Private facil-
ities comprise the third general park category and are
usually not considered heavily in a recreational-system-
wide analysis since the activities they contain may vary
extensively. Typical activities range from miniature golf
to boating rentals.
In conjunction with identifying existing recreation facilities.
an analysis and quantification of human needs and desires
should be conducted. Establishing the preferences of the
.user group will obviously permit the planning of facilities
which most directly meet their needs.
In analyzing user preferences. several factors are examined.
Most importantly, the demographic structure of a community
should be studied. The overall age structure of a population
.. often determines which types of recreational activities
will be most in demand. Young growing communities for
instance, will probably require the installation of tot
lots and other play facilities for younger children. On
the other hand, in communities where the concentrations of
elderly people are greater, more passive recreational
facilities may be appropriate.
Other more specific factors are obviously included in the
overall planning for effective open space and in fact. will
be utilized in the Chanhassen Plan. In a general sense, the
comparison of existing facilities to existing and future
demand levels indicates deficiencies in a park system. This
deficit should then be corrected through the planned placement
of recreational facilities.
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. Implementation
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Upon completing a recreation plan, the critical issue becomes
how to implement it. Implementation of a park plan involves
the expenditure of large sums of money which unfortunately,
most communities seldom have. Therefore, outside sources
are looked upon.
Before examining specific revenue sources, general implemen-
tation methods should be studied. Three major tools for
open space acquisition and/or control are currently available:
acquisition, regulation, and taxation. While each of these
methods are viable alternatives, each employs distinct
mechanisms which in turn result in varied amounts of control.
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Acquisition
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The acquisition of full or partial rights to land parcels
provides a community with the surest way of preserving
open space. Land can be acquired through condemnation,
donation, or purchase, all of which are legal means since
the acquisition of park land serves as a public benefit.
Easements constitute another method through which open space
lands can be acquired. Easements differ from the fee simple
purchase of a property in that they are typically used to
acquire only partial rights to a parcel. As such, they can
be in two forms, either affirmative or negative.
Affirmative easements are those which grant the city and
the pUblic the right to use land for specific purposes.
Negative easements on the otherhand, prohibit the use of
land by the pUblic and more importantly, specifically
restrict the uses to which an owner may put his land. Some
types of conservation easements can be considered as negative
since they limit land uses to such activities as farming,
wetlands, or scenic easements along highways. Easements
as a method of acquiring open space are an effective proced-
ure since they permit local governments to stretch budget
dollars in the provision of recreational facilities.
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Regulation
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A second method of acquiring open space is through regulatory
means. Through the use of zoning and subdivision ordinances,
local municipalities have control over open space areas.
Of these regulatory tools, zoning is most often utilized.
Two general !ypes of zoning ordinances exist which are used
to provide open space. The first type, known as development
.zoning includes provisions such as cluster zoning. Schemes
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such as this involve both park lands and open space areas
since cluster zoning permits the grouping of structures
thereby freeing up additional lands for park use. The
second type known as natural resource zoning, takes a some-
what opposite approach since it is used to prohibit
structures from identified areas. Typically, this control
method is used to protect marshes, floodplains, agricultural
land, and other natural resources. The City of Chanhassen
presently utilizes both of these mechanisms.
Subdivision ordinances can affect open space conservation
and can implement its preservation through design restric-
tions which regulate the layout of developments. Futhermore.
as a part of such an ordinance, a city can require the
dedication of permanent open space as a platting requirement.
In cases where a municipality does not need additional park
land, a fee in lieu of the dedication can be charged. This
fee is usually calculated to be roughly equivalent to the
value of any land parcels which are required under the ded-
ication ordinance. land dedication requirements are justified
on the grounds that a subdivision is responsible for providing
recreational amenities to the residents who reside within it.
The City of Chanhassen currently utilizes dedication as a
means of providing open space and park areas.
Taxation '
The third method of acquiring public open space is through
taxation. Through the use of the tax structure. various
incentives for the provision of open space can be offered.
Included among these are tax exemption. preferential
assessments. and tax deferrals.
Public open space. both parks and non-developed areas. are
usually exempt from the payment of property taxes. Exemp-
tions can be expanded to cover privately owned lands used as
public open space. with the degree of tax exemption depending
on the amount of benefit or use afforded to the public.
Preferential tax assessment as a method of providing open
space has been used primarily for agricultural land. In
operation, preferential tax assessments provide for varia-
tions in the tax associated with land values. For example,
under this method agricultural land located within a city
would be assessed at its agricultural value rather than at
its potential development value. In this case. the overall
purpose of a preferential assessment is to retain agricul-
tural land for farming purposes and thereby, preserve it
as a type of open space.
Another aid in preserving open space is the tax deferral
process. Under this system. taxes on land located within
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a planned or existing open space area are deferred as long
as the land remains in an open type land use. If the owner
of the open space parcel decides to develop the land for
non-open space uses, all deferred taxes have to be paid before
the development qains final approval. Common examples of the
use of the tax deferral process include a golf course or a
wooded tract. As urban development surrounds a public
facility such as a golf course, private owners of such
facilities are often faced with high taxes which in some
cases may threaten the continued existence of the site
as an open space area. The deferral of taxes on such a
parcel would permit the facility to continue as a recrea-
tional facility.
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Recreational Facilities
.In analyzing the existing recreational facilities within a
community, it is first necessary to define a zone of in-
fluence. In its conceptual state, a zone of influence
defines a hypothetical geographic area in which people are
likely to travel to participate in recreational activities.
For the purpose of this plan, the zone of influence is
defined as the area which represents a maximum travel time
of 25-30 minutes.
The area depicted on the Zone of Influence Map should be
viewed in general terms. Within this designated.area, the
pUblic is likely to move about freely in order to partici-
pate in various types of recreational activities. The
delineation of this line does not however, imply that
participation is unlikely outside of the zone. Major
cultural and recreational activities outside of this area
will draw users from within the zone. An example of this
might be the participation by the public in boating and
fishing on the St. Croix River. In this case, the St.
Croix has certain amenities which draw users from a wider
geographic area.
In looking at the Zone of Influence Map, it becomes apparent
that the demand for recreation occurs 4rregardless of
political boundaries. Existing recreation areas outside
of the City of Chanhassen exert an influence on the
Chanhassen population while recreational facilities within
the City exert an influence on the population outside the
Chanhassen municipal boundaries. The migration into
. Chanhassen to utilize city recreation facilities will be the
strongest in neighboring communities which have not been
active in developing park and open space lands which meet
the needs of their residents.
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Recreational Zone of Influence
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Facility Inventory - Regional Facilities
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As a prerequisite to analyzing specific park sites, a
classification scheme for various types of recreation
areas should be established. Initially, parks and open
space areas can be broken down into four ownership/manage-
ment categories: federal, state, regional and local.
Federal, state and local facilities outside the Chanhassen
municipal boundary are not included in the site analysis
portion of this study. The chart entitled Metropolitan
Recreation Open Space System portrays the definitions,
service area boundaries, and site requirements for various
park types,
Regional Open Space
Regional recreation open space is defined as areas to which
the pUblic has access and which, because of their natural
environment character and development, offer recreational
opportunities that attract large numbers of people irrespec-
tive of political boundaries. The attraction of such an
area can be in its uniqueness as a facility or because of
the existence of notable natural resource features.
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In the Twin City Metropolitan Area. the regional recreation
open space system consists of five components: regional
parks, regional park reserves. regional trail corridors.
regional historic parks. and regional special use areas.
Within the City of Chanhassen. three of these five facilities
are presently in existence.
Minnewashta Regional Park
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park is located on
eas rner of Lake Minnewashta. lying southwest
junctio f State Highway 7 and 41. At the pres
this facil is in the acquisition stage alt
minor develop may take place as early
of 1979. Origina ans called for th
of 394.14 acres. Of 's total. 37
by the fall of 1980.
time.
h some
summer
entual acquisition
res should be acquired
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As indicated on the Lake
Plan, a wide range of
planned for the pa~ lte. Planned a 'ities include
picnicking, as' ing beach, a boat laun 'ng facility.
camping area ature center and interpretive a, active
play spa and a nature demonstration and stud ea.
Detai development plans will be submitted to the 'ty
fo view and comment before they are approved by the
unty. The city review will consist primarily of an
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Lake Minnewashta Regional Park is located on the northeast corner of Lake
Minnewashta, southwest of the intersection of State Highways 7 and 41. The
facili ty was originally established as a park in the late 1970' s aOO has been in
the developnent stage since that time. Land area in the park totals 350 acres.
The development of park facHi ties is being done in accordance wi th the park "s
original master plan. Existing facilities include two boat accesses, one of
which is unrestricted accommodating 25 vehicles and the other which is
restricted to 10 hp motors having parking for 10 vehicles. Additionally, a
swilTlTling beach, picnic areas, a picnic shelter and groomed cross country ski
trails are currently available for public use.
Future plans call for additional facilities including a bath house, maintenance
shop, addi tional picnic shelters, a nature interpretive center, expan1ed picnic
areas, additional parking, an open field area, a tot lot and expanded utility
improvements such as restrooms aOO drinking water.
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park continues to be operatEd aOO maintainEd by Carver
County. Funding for facilities comes from the Metropolitan Council. The
Metropolitan Coll'1cil maintains a policy stating that a prime purpose of regional
parks is to provide recreational facilities which are not found in municipal
parks. Because of this, Lake Minnewashta Regional Park will not contain ball
diarn:>nds, temis courts, h::x:key rinks or other active facilities in the future.
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Metropolitan Recreation Open Space System
COMPONENT USE SERVICE AREA SITE SITE ATTRIBUTES SITE LOCATION
MINH'AItK ~ptcl,lll..d 1lClllt~s thllarllt I
conCfntrlltd or Iimittd populltion
., specil.c group IUch as tots or Ln than 1,. Less than
.nior citi,.ns; m.y be in I_ions Illite 1 acrf
tueh ilS .partrMnl ComplfuS, t_
hoUSf dflltlopmenlS. or _al
centers.
..EIGHBORHOOD Ar"lor intfnSf recrutional 11. to 1/2 mile 10.25 Physiogr.phy Prollimity to el.
PARK PLAYGROUND eetivitfS such IS Iltld gllTIft, ladius to serve Ierl5 lUittd for menllry schools.
court glmfS, cr.lts, i1PPlrllus I popul'lion 01 int",Sf develop-
er,., sk.ling. neighborhood 4,000 to 5,000 ment.
cenlfr1- Cneighborhoodl
COMMUNITY Art' for inlfn. rterllloonal 3-5 neighborhoods 25.50 Physiogr.phy Prollimity to second-
PLAYFIELO facilities lUeh as .thlettc Icommunity-' leres lUilfd for ery school ilnd other
f"lds .nd swimming pools; int",Sf public flleilities.
could includf neighborhood *",Iopment.
use.
COMMUNITY Arll 01 nalur.1 or orn_tal 3- 5 neighborhoods 25.SQ Aflords nalur.1 P,ollirnity to commu.
PARK qUllitv for outdoor rec".tion Icommunity-' Ierl5 fellures with nity flleilities a.
IIIch 's wllk .nll. viewinll. wr iel.l physio- wher, ,esources Ir,
Iitllng. picnlCk'ng. could hav, ...phic interest. ..,.il.bl,.
IOrM fltld .nd cou" garMs.
REGIONAL PARK Ar.. 01 nalur.1 or orn.rMnlll 3-5 communities. 200.500 Comp1elf natural Wh,r, naturlll ,.
qUlllty for natur.orlfnttd leres Rning contiguous lOurc. occurs -
outdoor recruloon IUCh ilS CHIO llert 10 Wllfr bod,,, or ,.rticularl" w.ter.
picnick '"II. boating, fishing, IIlinimuml _Ifr courses wher.
lWimming. skiing. hiking, a. possiblf.
amping.
REGIONAL PARK Area 01 natur.1 Quality for County 1000 + . Diversity 01 uniqu, Wher, reou~.
(( IIESERVE natur.orienttd outdoor Multi-county 8Cres; 1Uf.! _~es. i..~,~ eccurs. .
IIKrulion IUCh as viewing fiei,nt ...phy, Iakts,ltrtams.
end studying nature, .ildlolt ... to _rsllts, florl, fauna.
flabillt, CDnSfnlllion, am- encompeu
ping. picnicking, hiking. a. th, ,esource
f,shing. envisioned
lor pres".
_tion.
LINEAR PARK Area deve'Optd for one or Sufficient Utililt _mIIdf ./Of' Where li",er r.-
CT'ilits. park_ysl IIlOrt vlryinll modes 01 ftc. width to natur.I linter resources eource occurs.
"'1 ionaltl'lVtllUCh IS provide IUCh 15 utility Link COrnpontrllt of
hiking. bIkIng. _0- _aimum corridors, ,ighls-oI.VWiIY. ftCrtl1ion IYlt~.
~ling. horSfblCk riding. protection ..,ainage ways. bluff link othe, community
crolSCountry skiing. CI' ot resou~e 'nes. Vlllftiltion pal' fKilitits lUdIas
IlOfing. . drivinll- . mallimum -rns.. and ntiIds. DOOts, library. and
-; ~.....
."ficitnt
....th to
ClllftIPlilh
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HISTORIC Ar" whocll prtstrws. main- SufliCitnt Historically.f', Where rtIOU,ct
PARK "ins, ilnd ,nterprets buildings. ... to tn. ant - npr_lthe IICCUrs;
lilft. l>>d ob,fClS of hIStorical compass "oed cultural, pol.. ~ event
end archeologlClI significance. facilitv Of' ticill. leonomic, eccurred.
__rc,. ...ilotary, or IOCiaI
history; lUOCialed
with hiltoriul "gurt;
.chitfClural.-cinltfl;
_jor .wchtologic.,
iiI,. urge enough to
prOlect all signi'"
Cll'lt ,_rees.
SPECIAL USE Ar.. prov,chng spf!C.h,td or 1I<<,"c #.ppIoprillt, 10 S.11I wher. "'eded
lingle purpow ,ec""loOnal ..nl.lard panicular ..,aaJ and .ppropri.le.
Kliv.tl"" such IS goll courtts, IPplic..ble _.
nalure cenlers. m...nas, IOOS. lID desired
~rvI10,ift. iIftIorPtum, _.
\~ ertnIS. gun clubs.
-(;ommun,IV in this COl'lttatia I .OU""" 01 neoghtIorlloodl.lS dt.ifwd above,.... not. unit of fDWoIfIImfnt.
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alysis of development plans to as~ure consistency wi
c development standards, providing that final dev
men lans are in accordance with the developed mas
plan.
The prim y purpose of the lake Minnewashta onal Park
is to ful 1 the regional recreation needs the popula-
tions of the ities of Chanhassen, Chaska, d Victoria.
A mechanism h been established to solic. citizen input
from each of th e jurisdictions into t overall develop-
ment process. An been established
consisting of two resentatives fr Chanhassen, one from
Chaska, one from Vic ria, and one rom the county park
commission. The purpo mmittee will be to review
the county's developmen a make recommendations to
the Carver County Park Co is on pertaining to the plan.
It is intended that the rep entatives of each city will
serve as liaisons between e respective city councils
and the county. This co itte is scheduled to be estab-
lished when the county gins pr aration of detailed
development plans or on request the City of Chanhassen
prior to that time.
As mentioned pre ously, the Minnewasht Regional Park is
currently in t acquisition stage with .or facility
development p. jected sometime in 1984. B ore that time
however, so fa~ility development will occu 'resent
estimates 11 for the installation of a road ,parking
area, bo launching facility, and control gate uring the
f 1980. The opportunity also exists for e interim
the regional park by the City of Chanhassen ovided
tha such uses are consistent with overall plans. T
ablishment of picnic areas may be appropriate as an
terim use.
Arboretum
The Minnesota landscape Arboretum located on the western
edge of Chanhassen, serves as a regional special use
facility. The arboretum consists of 580 acres, the majority
of which is in Chanhassen with smaller land parcels being
located in both Chaska and Victoria. Maintenance and
staffing for the arboretum is provided by the University of
Minnesota.
The major attraction of the arboretum is the facility itself.
Some 4,000 species and cultivars of ornamental and native
plants are located on the site. This display draws users
from throughout the Metropolitan Area, particularly during
the spring when materials are in bloom and again in the
fall when the Fall Festival is held. This festi~al has
attracted as many as 10,000 visitors.
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In addition to the plant viewing function of the Arboretum.
the facility is also involved in activities ranging from
research to educational programs. Breeding and research
programs to improve the hardiness and landscape qualities
of plant materials, flower exhibits, nature hikes, and
horticultural classes all are typical activities.
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National Wildlife Refuge
The third facility in Chanhassen which can be considered
regional in importance is the Minnesota Valley National
Wildlife Refuge. like the Minnewashta Regional Park. the
Wildlife Refuge is still in the acquisition stage. Eventual
plans call for the acquisition of approximately 6,600 acres
providing a linear greenbelt stretching from Fort Snelling
to the town of Carver.
The stated objectives of the wildlife refuge are:
1. To preserve a critical portion of the Minnesota River
Valley with its wildlife and natural habitat.
2. To provide an urban wildlife area for birdwatching,
photography, nature study, hunting, fishing and other
wildlife oriented activities.
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3. To provide a unique educational resource tD .11 ages
by assisting with field studies of environmental inter-
relationships, stimulating curiosity and investigation of
living things by offering a variety of first hand outdoor
experiences.
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In order to realize identified objectives, major program
areas have been identified. Included are wildlife production
and maintenance, wildlife and weltland appreciation. environ-
mental education. research and scientific studies. fishing
and hunting, and historic preservation.
Within Chanhassen. the wildlife refuge is scheduled to
encompass the entire southern section of the community.
At the present time. the land bounded by U.S. Highways 169
and 212 on the north and Highways 169 and 101 on the west.
and by the Chanhassen border on the east and south is part
of the land acquired for the refuge. The land lying to the
west of this site bounded by U.S. Highway 212 on the north.
the Minnesota River on the south. and the Chanhassen
municipal limit on the east and west will eventually become
part of the refuge.
Because of the size of the refuge. a substantial amount of
time will be required for the acquisition of all projected
land parcels. Due to the immense size of the project and
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consequently, the high cost, several allocation methods
will be used. In its final form, the refuge will consist
of parcels owned by the federal government, the state,
municipalities, and in some cases, by private owners through
the provision of easements. Upon comDletion, the Minnesota
Valley National Wildlife Refuge will ~ontain facilities
for camping, fishing, hunting, canoeing, bicycling, snow-
mobiling, and nature study, all of which will provide a
direct recreational benefit to both Chanhassen and the
Metro population as a whole.
Facility Inventory - Chanhassen
Historically, the development pattern of cities has evolved
around a central tract of open space - the city park. Often.
these parks are one SQuare block in area and usually serve
as a focal point for the community. Facilities include a
band shell. fountain, or sitting area; all of which promote
social interaction. An analysis of area communities
portrays this pattern. In the City of Minneapolis. Loring
Park serves this function while in Chaska, the town square
idea is portrayed by the Chaska City Park. Because of
Chanhassen's historic development pattern. the evolution
of it's park system has been somewhat different.
Chanhassen's development as a suburban community has produced
a park system which. although different in format from the
traditional central city park. has 1n reality developed in
somewhat the same manner. Instead of the central town square
park. Chanhassen has established a community park which serves
as the primary recreational facility. This site is supple-
mented by a series of neighborhood parkS which provide
recreational opportunities within close proximity to the
residential population. These facilities combined with
other open space areas constitute the existing recreational
open space system.
The success of the park system within a community depends
on a number of factors. Certainly. sound planning. placement.
and design are primary determinants. One feature however.
stands out as a critical factor which often can make the
difference between a good park system and an excellent one.
That factor is natural diversity.
Natural features can provide favorable factors in the
establishment of viable open space areas. Such factors as
tree cover. topographic diversity, lakes. streams. vistas.
and marsh areas can add immensely to the overall success of a
park system. Fortunately. all of these exist within Chan-
hassen and these characteristics, coupled with the strong
established park tradition within the community. form the
basis for the provision of a park system in Chanhassen which
can be considered second to none.
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Municipal park facilities can be considered as falling into
one of four categories: mini-parks. neighborhood park-play-
grounds, community playfields, and community parks. The
definitions and characteristics of each of these 1s indicated
on the chart entitled Metropolitan Recreation Open Space
System. In addition to these. other facilities may be used
for recreation which do not totally fall within these
categories.
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The following facilities comprise the existing Chanhassen
Park System.
Name: Cathcart Park
Type: Neighborhood Park
Si ze: 3 acres
Facilities: Tennis Court
Hockey Rink
Baseball Diamond
Warming House
Basketball Court
Play Equipment
Comments: Cathcart Park is located in the extreme northwest
corner of Chanhassen. This park is unique because while it
lies totally within Chanhassen, the facility is maintained
by the City of Shorewood. The park consists of a level site
surrounded by a church on the north and residential uses on
the east, west, and south. Some vegetation exists on the
site but the majority of the facility 1s devoted to active
play space.
~ame: Minnewashta Heights Park
Type: Neighborhood Park
Size 2 acres
Facilities: Ice Skating Rink
Picnic Area
Open Space
Volleyball
Comments: Minnewashta Heights Park covers four residential
lots in the Minnewashta Heights Addition. Some tree cover
exists on the site and several depressional areas are
frequently damp, particularly in the spring. N
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None
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s presently undeve
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Name: Herman Field
Type: NeigtDorhood Park
Size: 11.75
Facilities: None
Comments: Herman Field is presently mdeveloped. A master plan for the park
calls for a ball field, picnic shelter, play lot, off street parking aoo various
areas for cliRbing and imaginative play, all interconnected by a walkway system.
It is anticipated that development of the facility will begin during the summer
of 1987.
Name: Lake Ann Park
Type: Community Park/playfield
Size: 98 acres
hcili ties: Tennis Court
Ball Diamonds (3), 1 lighted
Swinming Beadl
Picnic Area
Play Equipment
Tot Lot
Na tural Wooded Area
Open Space
Volleyball
HorsesOOes
Soccer (Fall)
Tra i Is
Boa t Access
Comments: Lake Ann Park is located in the central developed porticn of the
eorrmunity on State Higtway 5, approximately 1/2 mile west of County Road 17.
The topography of the site is gently rolling aOO the western quarter of the park
is in dense tree cover. This natural diversity affords a variety of both active
and passive uses. A swimming beach is located on Lake Ann which fOIms the
park's northern boundary. During the surrrner months, lifeguards supervise the
winming area.
The eastern portion of the park is largely mdeveloped. The park .ster plan
calls for three additional ball fields, parking, soccer and hockey rinks.
During 1987, it is anticipated that a picnic shelter aOO concessicn stand will
be constructed in the central porticn of the park. Addi tionall y, future plans
call for a new picnic shelter/community room adjacent to the swimming beach
area.
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Name: Greenwooj Shores Park
Type: NeigtDorhood Park
Size: 3.6 acres
Facilities: Boat Access
Picnic Area
Beach Area- Lake Ann
.
Comments: Greenwocrl Shores Park is essentially lI'ldeveloped at the Jresent time.
Facilities a1 the site include a boat access (carry in only) which is suitable
for canoes and small sailboats. The site slopes from east to west ta.lard both
lakes with a drainageway roughly bisecting the tract. Tree cover within the
park is extensive. Although little development has taken place a1 the site,
Greenwood Shores is considered to be an important component of the Chanhassen
Park System. The area offers great potential because of the mature vegetation
arrl access to both lake Lucy and Lake Am.
In 1986, the city completed a bituminous trail which connects Greenwood Shores
Park and Lake Ann Park around the eastem side of Lake Am. In the near future,
a tot lot and volleybdl court will be built in Greenwood StDres Park.
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Name: MeadCM Green Park
Type: NeigtDorhood Park
Size: 18.2 acres
Facilities: Ball Diamonds (2)
Basketball (1/2 court)
Tot Lot
Soccer (Fall)
Off-Street Parking
Picnic Tables
Trail Easements
.
Comments: Meadow Green Park was acquired as a part of the Chaparral
development. Existing facilities serve both neighborhood users and residents
from other portions of the caml1.1'1ity. The eastern edges of the park will remain
as natural areas because of the pnsence of a creek and rm-off detention pond.
Future facilities are likely to include tennis courts.
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Name: Carver Beach Playground
Type: NeigtDorhood Park
Size: 2 acres
Facilities: Play Equipment
Open Field
Baseball
Basketball
Ice Ska ting
Comments: Carver Beach PlaygI'Oll'd, located a1 Carver Beach Road consists of a
rectangular, level site. Very little vegetaticn is present as IIOst of the park
is devoted to active use acco.lffOdating pr-imarily casual game activities.
.
lrver Beach
~- 'Orhood Park
.8'!S
tS t Lot
ach Area
Picnic Area
Tra il
I: Carver Beach is a lineal tract of lam on the western edge of Lotus
lis facility serves primarily as a neigtDorOOod access to the lake and
~ serve the public at large due to a lack of parking. '!he southern part
lte contains mature tree cover.
hassen
ed for
ry of
marsh
: is r'lOti
~e used
ion may
ility.
~tuni ty
lkways,
I
)rth Lotus Lake Park
!igtDorhood
~ acres
!s: None
I: North Lotus Lake Park is located a1 Pleasant View Road. '!he site
r:an north to south toward Lotus Lake with the uplard area having been in
)s and the lower lake areas in wetland vegetation. The size of the
rwj its access to Lotus Lake make this park an important recreational
.
ly canpleted master plan calls for construction of a ball diarraad/soceer
ot;- ..,t, tennis courts, skating rink, sliding hill, picnic shelter and
It! f6irg. Focility construction will begin in 1987.
hanhassen PoOO Park
omnunity Park
6 acres
es: Viewing Stand
Tra 11
Off-Street Parking
shore
opment
swale
~s: Chanhassen Pond Park was acquired as part of the residential
nent of the Western Hills subdivision. The topography of the aite
I it suitable for only passive recreational uses, primarily, the
.100 of waterfowl. The park has been classified as a community park
t does not serve the demand for active facilities fran the surrot.J:lding
:n additioo to city owned land, a 4.65 acre conservation easement was
I to the ci ty as part of the plat of Chan Vista. Since private
ment is excluded from the area, the park Is effectively a 20 acre
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lake Ann Park
Community Park/Playfield
62 acres
ities: Tennis Court
Baseball Fields (3)
Swimming Beach
Picnic Area
Play Equipment
Tot lot
Natural Wooded Area
Open Space
Comments: located in the centra developed
portion of the mmunity on State Highway 5, app ximately
~ mile west of nty Road 17. The topography the site is
gently rolling an he western half of the par is in
dense tree cover. is natural diversity aff rds a
variety of both acti and passive uses. A wimming
beach is located on la e Ann which forms t park's
northern boundary. Dur g the summer mon s, lifeguards
supsupervise the swimmin area. Access 0 lake Ann Park ~
is by city permit with a 79 resident ee of $2.00 and ~
a non-resident fee of $12. ~
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Comments: Lake lucy-lake
at the present time. Fa
access (carry in only)
small sailboats. The
both lakes with a dra
Tree cover within t
development has ta
is considered to
Park System. T
mature vegetat
n Park is sentially undeveloped
ities on the ite include a boat
ich is suitable or canoes and
te slopes from ea to west toward
ageway roughly bis ting the tract.
park is extensive. A ough little
n place on the site. lake ucy-Ann Park
an important component of e thanhassen
area offers great potential b ause of the
to both Lake Lucy an lake Ann.
Chaparral Park is a recent acquisition as a
resu of the Chaparral-New Horizons Development. Planned
fac. ities include areas for both passive and active play.
Ba ball, tennis, a play area, football-soccer, and fee
ating will be accommodated in the active spaces which
ill cover a majority of the site. The eastern edges of
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he park will remain as natural areas because of the presence
a creek and run-off detention pond. A trailway will
nder through this area.
arver Park
Neighborhood Park
Si ze: acres
Facilit, s: Play Equipment
Open Field
Baseba 11
Basketball
ce Skating
Comments: Carv Park located on Carver Beach
of a rectangular, level site. Very little veg ation is
present as most 0 the park is devoted to ac ve use
accommodating both rganized and casual gam activities.
Name: Carver Beach
Type: Neighborhood
Size: 7.8 acres
Facilities: Boat Launchi
Beach Area
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tract of land on the
facility serves primarily
ke and does not serve the
rking. The southern
e cover.
Comments: Carver Beach is a
western edge of Lotus Lake. T
as a neighborhood access to th
public at large due to a lack
part of the site contains ma
tiame: Lotus Lake Park
Type: Neighborhood
Size: 23 acres
Facilities: None
Comments: Lotus La
at the present,
to south toward
1 n row crops an
The size of th
this park an
Park has been recentl
ndeveloped. The site sl es from north
us Lake with the upland are having been
the lower lake areas in wetlan vegetation.
parcel and its access to Lotus L e make
portant future recreational facili
ame: Wes rn Hills Par
ype: Ne' hborhood Park
Size: 1 acres
Facilit es: None
Comm ts: Western Hills Park was acquired as part of the
res. ential development of the Western Hills subdivision.
To ate, no development has taken place on this site. It
projected that an entrance will be provided and some
lanting wTll take place during the summer of 1979. The
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pography of the site renders it suitable for only passive
r reational uses. The pond area is a popular site for
wat: r fowl.
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Comments: nhassen Estates Park lies on the so hem end
of the Chanha en Estates development. Approxim ely 1.7
acres of the p k is now being used for the pla area and
ballfield. A s vice road skirts the norther oundary
of the site to p vide access to a lift stat. n. The
balance of the pa is marsh area consistin largely of
cattail vegetation. Chanhassen Estates Pa is now
classified as a neig orhood park because he limited
facilities are used p imarily by area re dents. In the
future however, this c ssification may' change as the park
may become more signifi nt as a comm ity-wide facility.
Rice Marsh Lake and the rrounding rsh area afford an
excellent opportunity for he devel ment of a natural area.
Through the provision of wa kways, bservation and study of
aquatic plants and animals c ld cur.
Name: Bandimere Heights
Type: Neighborhood Park
Size: 2.5 acres
Facilities: None
Comments: Bandimere
on the western shore of
as part of a subdivisio development a
is void of any facili es. The park si
swale area, with the urrounding slopes
trees. Development round this park is
hence, little dema for the use of the
ocated on Kiowa Trail
is park was acquired
at the present
consists of a
vered with small
10 density and
fac lity exists.
Name: Bluff Cre
Type: Commun i
Size: 20.6 a
Facilities:
Park
Park
es
one
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Comments: luff Creek Park is part of the drainage ystem
for Bluff reek. The site drops from a northemelev
of appro imately 900 feet down to the 700 foot elevat
the Mi esota River floodplain. This ravine provides e
of th most dramatic vistas in the community affording a
view cross the floodplain and into the City of Shakopee.
Due 0 topographical constraints. this parcel will serve
on as the preservation of the drainage system but has
t potential to provide a future link in a pedestrian
orridor system para1lelling Bluff Creek.
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Lotus Lake
,.,
Lotus Lake Park 1-.200.
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Park Site
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omit
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north
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i Hall Sit
mrnunity Park/Playfield
Size: 2. es
Facilities:
Hall site is
roximity
rnately 2.8 acres of t
presentl oted to recreation. With the c
ng, this area receives community wide use
arily to organized activities such as hockey.
In addition to city parks, other facilities both public,
semi-public, and private provide recreation spaces. Schools
are notable examples among this group. Within Chanhassen.
two public schools exist: The Chanhassen Elementary School
and Minnetonka West Junior High. They provide the following
facilities.
d
Name: Chanhassen Elementary School
Type: Public School
Size: 10 acres (recreation area)
Facilities: Baseball Diamonds
Tennis Courts
Football/Soccer Field
Play Equipment
Running Track
Open Space
Comments: The site is relatively flat with some slope on the
western edge and has little or no existing vegetation.
Name: Mjnnetonka West Junior High School
Type: 'ublic School
Size: 15 acres (recreation area)
Facilities: Hockey Rink
Football Field
Tennis Courts
Baseball Diamonds
Field Hockey
Indoor Swimming Pool
Open Space
In addition to the pUblic schools. one parochial school
provides recreation space. St. Hubert's Catholid School
which is located on the eastern edge of the business area
. is utilized for some recreational activities. A play.area.
ball diamond, and open space comprise facil.1ties that are
used primarily by the surrounding residents.
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PARK
Cathcart
Mwta. Heights
Herman Field
Lake Ann Park
Greenwood Shores
Chaparral
Carver Beach
Carver
Lotus Lake
Western Hills
Chanh...en Elt.
Bandlmere Hts.
Bluff Creek
City Hall
~,
Chin. Etem.
Mtka. West
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FACILITY
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(.) >'ii1; c:B ~asfn;::Ei u.. ~-E~ ~i
~~eIl~~-EeIlca(.)u ~cae.E ca~.D
~a'C:~eIl"'&~>~~C:Ei-(.)cE-~~
a.-c: In -fn..,-- - cauc:--..g
>.~ ell ~ as ~ ~ ca _ J:! J:! i ~ 0 0 :J ~ t .. 0
_ fn _ .! ~.&: ~.D a. a. a. 0 If) .D If) .. . ~ a._
NP 3 . . . . . . .: I ; 1 . i .
NP 2 . . '. ! i 1 i
NP 12 U N 0 E Y!E L 0 PIE D .
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CP 58 . . .. '.. .. . .
NP 4 I. I . I.
NP 18 U N D E!Y;E L O:PiE.D
NP 8 I I ! . t.
NP 2 . . . . i ,.:
NP 23 U N D E:Y.E;L'OIP ED ,
NP 10 I I . t
NP 30 . .,. I I , ..
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NP 3 U N 0 E Y E'L'O PED
CP 21 U N 0 E YE:L OIP E D
NP 3 . . . . I. I I. I.
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- - . . . I . . .~.
Facility Tabulation_
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Semi-public and private facilities compose the final
categories of recreational spaces. In Chanhassen, private
facilities exist on both small and large scales. Major
facilities include .hi li'^' ni~-'+ '~1 the Bluff Creek
Golf Course. L._...1. A...~_.l .!.rr_.! Ilm~inL ~iIAilhin.,
1 immil.]. l..~ Lilt 11..'11_ jj.I..!I 'I.I IUmm!1 ml.l~. Bluff
Creek provides an IS-hole golf course which is open to the
public. The American Legion in Chanhassen comprises a
major semi-public facility. Adjacent to the Legion building
is a baseball diamond which is used for both organized and
casual games.
The remainder of the private facilities are composed of land
parcels used primarily by segments of the residential
population. Most of these areas are lake access points,
the usage of which is restricted to designated residential
lots. In some of these residential outlots, other recreational
facilities such as tennis courts are provided. A detailed
analysis of private recreational facilities will not be
conducted as part of this report. At the point in time in
which these private facilities become extensive enough to
diminish the demand for municipal facilities, these areas
will be considered. At the present time however, these
areas provide services to only a minor percentage of the
total population.
.
Demand
.
reational needs have increased dramatically in recent
yea Outdoor activities are recognized as a prime way
to spe leisure time, keep physically fit, and provide
a common tivity for families. Higher living standard
and reduce ork weeks have also contributed to an urge
in outdoor rec ation. It is interesting to note wever,
that the average mber of hours worked has not gnificantly
declined in recent ars, according to natio surveys.
This is due in part to ore people workin wo Jobs and the
higher labor force parti . ation rates r women.
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Commission and
Population: Pop is the single most tant factor
in determinin e demand for recreation. As tn opulation
increases, e demand for recreation increases ace ingly.
unger persons are more likely to participate in
ation activities. Generally, pursuits become fewer
more passive as a person grows older.
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Demand
User surveys constitute an important tool in the assessment of recreational
demand. TWo levels of information are presented herein, regional and local.
Caution must be applied in interpreting user surveys and it is not generally
reccxnmended that this inforrration be the sole basis for making decisions on
adding new facilities. For example, high levels of desire for specific
activities do not necessarily indicate that nore facilities should be built.
Rather, it may indicate that a lack of information exists and that potential
users are not knowledgeable of facility availability. While temis courts may
be heavily desired, the perceived need for more might be satisfied by
informing users of periods during the day when tennis courts are unused.
Considered in conjunction with other data, user preferences can be a
significant tool in analyzing recreational dellBnd.
In a regional context, two surveys were conducted as part of the 1985 State
Ccxnprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. Local government officials and the
general public were surveyed as a part of that effort. Their resulting
preferences were as follows:
Local Government Official Preference List
Bicycle Pa ths
Hiking Tra ils
Cross Country Ski Trails
Fishing Piers
Nature Study Centers
Walking Paths
Horseback Trails
Swimming Beaches
Public River Accesses
Boat Lalllching Sites
Natural Park-like Areas
Campgrounds
Hockey Rinks
Basketball Courts
Ska ting Rinks
Temis Courts
Picnic Grounds
Baseball/Softball Fields
Football/Soccer Fields
7.7
7.1
7.0
6.9
6.6
6.6
6.5
5.8
5.6
5.6
5.4
5.4
5.1
5.0
4.5
4.2
3.9
3.9
3.8
Citizen Priorities for Recreation Facilities
(
Natural Park-like Areas
Fishing Piers
Bicycle Paths
Walking Paths
Hiking Trails
Campgrounds
Public River Accesses
Swimming Beaches
Na ture Study Centers
Boat Lalllching Sites
Horseback Trails
Picnic Grounds
Cross COll'ltry Ski Tra ils
Skating Rinks
Tennis Courts
Basketball Courts
Hockey Rinks
Baseball/Softball Fields
Football/Soccer Fields
5.8
5.7
5.5
5.5
5.5
5.4
5.2
5.1
5.0
4.9
4.7
4.4
4.1
3.3
3.2
2.5
2.0
1.9
1.9
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In 1987, the City of Chanhassen conducted a survey of resident preferences for
park facilities. Residents were asked whether the City presently had "too
rrany," "just enough" or "too few" of a variety of recreational facilities.
The top seven responses, all having a "too few" frequency of over 50 percent
deal primarily with the trail network, including: paved bike paths, walking
paths, and jobbing and hiking trails. The other three top ranking facilities
which over 50 percent of the population surveyed felt there are too few were; .
swimming pool, open air shelters, and fishing docks.
The following is a sumrrary of the survey results and related inforrration.
.
(. II. FACILITIES'
TOO MANY JUST ENOUGH TOO FEW
FREQ % FREQ % FREQ %
(1) Paved Bike Paths 4 2 67 31 148 68
(2) Walking Paths 3 1 75 34 141 64
(3) Swimming Pool 4 2 87 40 128 58
(4) Open Air Shelter 3 1 96 44 120 55
(5) Fishing Docks 5 2 105 48 109 50
(6) Jogging Trails 2 1 108 49 109 50
(7) Hiking Trails 3 1 107 49 109 50
(8) Racket Ball crts 5 2 111 51 103 47
(9) Camp Grounds 3 1 117 53 99 45
(10) CC Ski Trails 3 1 118 55 98 44
(11) Indr Tennis crts 7 3 118 54 94 43
(12) Playground Equip 0 0 129 59 90 41
(13) Ice Arena 5 2 127 58 87 40
(14) Wght Lftg Equip 6 3 126 58 87 40
(15) Neighborhd Parks 3 1 132 60 83 38
(16) Natural Areas 4 2 133 61 82 37
(17) Boat Launches 14 6 124 58 81 36
(18) Nature Centers 3 1 138 64 78 35
(19) Tennis Courts 3 1 142 65 74 34
(20) Golf Courses 4 2 143 65 72 33
(21) Picnic Areas 0 0 148 68 71 32
(22) Skating Rinks 3 1 148 68 68 31
. (23) Beaches 4 2 154 70 61 28
(24) Baseball Fields 8 4 167 76 44 20
III. PROGRAMS.
(% increase in participation)
[past 12 months)
Would your household Does your household
participate in: currently participate?
YES NO YES NO
FREQ % FREQ % % FREQ % FREQ %
Open Swimming 144 66 75 34 26% 85 38 134 61
Aerobics 127 57 92 42 34% 62 28 157 71
Indoor Skating 125 57 94 43 40% 54 24 165 .75
Swimming Lsns 105 47 114 52 37% 48 21 171 78
Softball 102 46 117 54 28% 58 26 161 74
Tennis (lge/les) 101 46 118 54 43% 40 18 179 82
Racketball 101 46 118 54 32% 52 24 167 76
Indoor Run/Trk 100 46 119 54 41% 42 19 177 81
Baseball 93 42 126 58 31% 49 22 170 78
Indoor Tennis 92 42 127 58 53% 28 13 191 87
Soccer 78 36 141 64 27% 45 21 174 79
Little Lge Bsbl 76 35 143 65 45% 29 13 190 87
Weightlifting 71 32 148 68 21% 46 21 173 79
yth Gymnastics 68 31 151 69 48% 24 11 195 89
Chldrn Dance 60 27 159 73 45% 23 11 196 89
Martial Arts 55 25 164 75 64% 12 5 207 95
yth Hockey 53 24 166 76 74% 8 4 211 96
. Adlt Hockey 41 19 178 81 37% 19 9 200 91
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come: Higher incomes relate to more numerous recreationa
pu suits. This increased desire for more recreation ofte
req ires the purchase of equipment which was previously
unaf rdable. Examples of such activities are snowmobi
boati ,camping; and golf. ~ .
E d u cat i 0: H l' g her 1 eve 1 s 0 fed u cat ion a re ass 0 c 1" ate d wit h
greater p rticipation in all recreation types.
.
Occupation: Greater occupational prestige resul
varied and a ive participation.
Mobility: The of American ciety has
been steadi ly i'n easing over the past few d cades.
Currently, the Di est constraint to travel is not access
to transportation cilities but rather, e cost involved.
Recent dramatic inc ases i'n gasoline pre es are leading
to modified travel pa terns. Shorter d. tance vacations
and outings are Decomi more commonpl e. The overall
net effect of this tren is an increa e in demand for
facilities and activitie provided b regional and municipal
facilities.
more
c
Recreation Opportuniti~s:
ties in an area may create
their presence may in fact
Natural Character: Leisure
are often used as status s
re ing the number of facili-
crease in participation;
a demand.
items, and facilities
.
Age, income, and leisure ime are amo the most important
socio-economic factors. Population gr th, as mentioned
previously, is the mos important overa consideration.
Chanhassen1s populate n increased by abo 1,450 persons
between 1970 and 192. Many of those comp ising this
increase were in y nger age brackets. The young and
active new reside s typically exhibit a hig demand for
all recreation f cilities and particularly th e providing
opportunity for active recreation. The commun yl5 population
is projected grow to 17,000 persons by the ye r 1990 with
the majority f new residents being in the active recreation
groups. Th. increase will result in a tripling 0 recrea-
tional dem d.
\
\
User sur eys constitute another tool in the assessmen of
recreat onal demand. Three sets of data are presented ere,
the fi st two being regional in nature and the third cor
resp ding specifically to Chanhassen. Caution must be
app ed in interpreting data of this type and it is not
re mmended that it alone form the basis .for facility de-
c. ions. For example, high levels of desire for specific
ctivities do not necessarily indicate that more facilities
.
(e
(.
.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
r-22
uld be built. Rather, it may indicate that a lack of
1n rmation exists and that potential users are not kn
ledg able on facility availability. While tennis cou s
may b heavily desired, the perceived need for more ght
be sat fied by informing users of periods during t e day
when ten is courts are unused. Considered in con. nction
with othe data, user preferences can be a signif. cant tool
in analyzi recreational demand.
Metro oli'tan
The followin chart depicts the 25 most frequ ntly desired
recreational a tivities and the correspondi portion of
the population activity.
- Desired
Activity
Bicycling
Camping
Tennis
Cross Country Skiing
Swimming
Misc. Fish1ng
Hiking
Misc. Hunting
Snowmobiling
Golf
Picnicking
Park Facilities
Misc. Boating
Misc. Ice Skat
Misc. Skiing
Canoeing
Trail Biki 9
Downhill iing
Horseba Riding
Summer ishing
Backp king
Walk. g
Bas all/Softball
Po er Boating
gging
21.9
16.0
14.5
11.9
10.3
9.8
8.2
6.8
6.3
6.2
5.3
4.0
.2
2
2.
2.4
2.2
1.9
1.7
1.6
1.5
1.5
1.3
1.3
1.3
Re ting to mobility, the following chart depicts the
a tivities for which respondents indicated the strongest
illlngness to travel.
r-23
(
Re ion - Willingness to Travel
Rank
lFarthest Distance)
t i'
Snowsti eing
Huntin Big Game
Backpack ng
Misc. Hun ing
Hunting Sm 11 Game
Camping
Canoeing
Hunting Water
Hunting Upland
Ice Fishing
Misc. Fishing
Misc. Boating
Visiting Historical
Snowmobiling
Waterskiing
Summer Fishing
Hiking
Bird Watching
Downhill Skiing
In 1977 as part of an overa1
the City of Chanhassen, resid
recreational activities that
in. The following results
lake usage within
asked to state the
y most often participated
ecorded:
Chanhassen - Preferred
Season
% of Population
Summer
Swimmi
Fishi
Picn cking
Hi ng
C oeing
cycling
aterSkiing
Sailing
Power Boating
Pontoon Boating
Motorbiking
Horseback Riding
Cross Country Skiing
Ice Skating
Snowmobi11 ng
Hiking
Ice Fishing
28
22
17
17
14
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Need
While the positive benefits of open space have not been
quantified by research, it is generally known and accepted
that people have definite spacial requirements which must
be satisfied if their health and welfare is to be maintained.
Spacial requirements may be ranked in a hierarchy from
individual private space to semi-private family areas to
pUblic spaces which can be shared by a neighborhood or by
the entire community.
Public responsibility for private and semi-private areas is
administered by the zoning ordinance through setbacks and
other requirements. Subdivision regulations also facilitate
the establishment of these areas by controlling development
patterns and promoting installation of amenities such as
trees. At the same time, Chanhassen's subdivision regulations
facilitate the provision of public open space through dedica-
tion requirements.
Although the street and its right-of-way is a form of public
open space which may accommodate several forms of recreation
such as walking and bicycling, most recreational open space
functions are provided by parks and other recreation facil-
ities. Considerations of location and design quality are
more important than size standards for various recreation
areas; however, as general measures of adequacy, standards
can be utilized. '
Prior to establishing standards, it is first necessary to
categorize various types of park facilities. In the Facility
Inventory section of this report, the Metropolitan Recreation
Open Space System classifications were given. These categories
have been applied to the City of Chanhassen with minor
modification and consolidation resulting in the following
components.
Chanhassen Open Space System
t
Use
Service Area
Mini-Park
d facilities that serve
a concentra . . ted
tion or specific
or senio .. ; may be in
ns such as apart:I1Elt c:cm-
plexes, tDwnhou;e developnents, or
conmercial centers.
-" un.le.
· omit
.
CDrrponent
Neighborhood
Park/Playground
Camnni. ty Park/
Playfield
Regional Park
Linear Park
(Trails, parkways)
(.
(
Use
r-l::>
Service Area
Area for intei.1Se recreational 3z to \ mile.
activities such as field garres,
court ganes, crafts apparatus area,
skating, neighbor mod centers.
Area of natural or ornamental
quality for outcbor recreaticn
such as walking, viewing, pic-
nicking; and nay contain areas
for intense recreational facili-
ties such as athletic fields.
Area of natural ornanElltal quality
for nature-oriented outcbor
recreation s\.rl1 as picknicking,
boating, fishiq;, swinmi..ng,
skiing, hiking and caIIJl~.
.
3- 5 neighborhoods
(12,000 - 25,000
population)
3- 5 COOIIllni. ties .
Not applicable.
.
f1iRi Plrh we aarle/1.9SS "'lf1atian.
Neighborhood Park/Playground - 5 acres/l.OOO population.
Community Park/Playground - 7 acres/1.000 population.
Standards have not been applied to the Linear Park component
because of the nature of this type of facility. Linear Parks
typically serve not as a single entity but rather as a
connecting link between major facilities or significant
natural features. As such, they become part of the entire
municipal park system and are not isolated individually.
Population Ratio Standard Application
Area developed for one or IIDre
varying IIDdes of recreational
travel s\.rl1 as hiking, biking,
Sl'n-JnDbiling, horseback riding,
cross comtry skiing, canoeing,
and dri. vi~.
The most commonly applied type of standard is known as a
population ratio standard. This standard is expressed as a
number of acres of park land per one thousand people and is
used to provide a general guideline for the assessment of
futur~3needs. In this report, a generally accepted standard
of ~acres per 1.000 people for municipal park lands will
be used. Additionally, the following component standards
will be utilized:
at
Chanhassen's existing population was estimated t} lNe
'L L. - r- - 1 : L.. 0 - -.. _ : 1 ..1 16, J 3 fjl as 0 f ~t.. : 1 0 f 4;):' 9.j, This
7,635 November 1985
\
.
.
.
(.
\
r-26
figure will be used in an assessment of existinQ~ed. For
1990, the Metropolitan Council estimates that ~ people
will reside within the community. Chanhats~, however,
projects that the city will contain ti ,OO"lre'ople by 1990 and 14,750 by
11\ B.f!eeI88flee ..it!. the I ~quil':'ffi~l.tJ af tit.. rkt\6~31: LL... L",.\d the year 2000.
flal,I,;I.! Aft, thiJ fJlaR iJ deJ;!Rea f81 a 1998 p3pulat!i~H\ If
11,888. BuLu (3\ 6 papulati31. af 1:',888 hall BeeR iROhuhi fir
~ \,;.r\,., _......'-.
The fOllowing charts assess park needs by components and
analyze both present and future needs.
of Present Need - Po ulation: 6 330
Community Park/ 79
Playground
Component
Park System 197
Mini-Park 0
Neighborhood
Park/Playground
Community Park/
Playground
Linear Park
Assessment of
Park
Neighborhood
Park/Playgroun
Linear Park
Assessment of Future
Component
Mini-Par
unity Park/
yground
.;npitr PArle
Existing
Acreage
Std. Applied
Standard to 1979 POP.
197 15ac/1000
95 ac.
o
.Sac/1000
3 ac.
3 ac
118
Sa cll 000
7ac/1000
32
44
. + 86 a c
+ 35 ac
Std. Applied
1990 Pop.
165 ac.
~
I~
I
OJ
~
":J
~
.-
~
CJ)
..c
:J
CJ)
Net
1990
+102 ac
6 ac.
3 ac
55 ac.
+ 63 ac
ac.
+ 2 ac
Existing Std. Appli
Acreage Standard to 1990 Pop.
Net
1990
197
o
255 ac.
lSac/l000
.Sac/lOOO
ac
8 ac.
118
Sac/lOOO
+33
85 ac.
79
7ac/lOOO
-40 ac
119 ac.
--___________Nnt Annlir~hlp--------------
14
Assessment of Present Need - Popu1a tion: 7,635 (1985)
Park System
Existing Std. Applied
Acreage Standard to 1985 Pop. Net 1985
241 ac. 13ac/1000 99 ac. +142 ac.
136 ac. Sac/1000 38 ac. + 98 ac.
105 ac. 7ac/1000 53 ac. + 52 ac.
.
Canponent
Neighbortood
ParkjP1ayground
Canmuni ty
ParkjP1ayground
Linear Park
------ Not Applicable --------..
Assessment of Future Need - Population: 9,480 (1990 )
Existing Std. Applied
Canponent Acreage Standard to 1990 Pop. Net 1990
Park System 241 ac. 13ac/1000 123 ac. +118 ac.
Neighbortood
( , ParkjP1aygound 136 ac. Sac/1000 47 ac. + 89 ac.
Ccmnuni ty .
ParkjP1ayground 105 ac. 7ac/1000 66 ac. + 39 ac.
Linear Park ------- Not Applicable -----------
Assessment of Future Need - Population: 14,750 (2000)
Existing Std. Applied
Canponent Acreage Standard to 2000 Pop. Net 2000
Park System 241 ac. 13ac/1000 192 ac. + 49 ac.
Neighbortood
ParkjP1ayground 136 ac. Sac/1000 74 ac. + 62 ac.
Ccmnuni ty
ParkjPlayground 105 ac. 7ac/1000 103 ac. + 2 ac.
Linear Park ------ - Not Applicable ___u
\.
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((
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r-27
.5 acres/1000 population.
Pur se/Comments: Mini-parks can essentially be broken down
into 0 categories depending upon the age brackets of their
intend users. Those providing facilities for the young
are com n1y referred to as tot lots or play lots. Those
designed or elderly users are referred to as mini-parks
or vest po Their size and locationa1 requir ents
are similar owever, they differ significantly in the ypes
of facilities they provide.
Tot lots are ty ica11y provided for pre-school cho dren up
to 6 years of ag primarily in conjunction with u1ti-fami1y
developments and i some cases, in single fami neighborhoods
which are isolated rom elementary school sit . These spaces
place a major emphas on the safety of the mall children
who utilize them. As uch, they are usual located away
from high traffic areas and are enclosed either natural
or architectural barrier Uses may in ude a defined area
for play equipment and sp ia1 faci1itO s such as a sand
area, spray pool, open tur area for ctive play, and a
shaded area for quite activi ies.
omit
Mini-parks designed to meet th
also most often located contigu
particularly those which are d
Their uses are more passive i nat
typically provide spaces fo quiet
conversations, and the obs rvation 0
and flowers.
of elderly users are
multi-family developments,
as elderly housing.
e than tot lots and
me activities, reading,
specimen plan materials
The optimum size of mi i-parks ranges fr as little as
2,000 square feet up 0 one acre depending upon the number of
users to be served, ite characteristics, a design
considerations. ni-parks generally serve ers residing
within a ~ mile dius of the site.
: At the present time, Chanhasse
ties located in larger park areas.
anhassen Estates Neighborhood Park se es the
residential population. The second site is
located 0 Lake Ann Park and is not within walking di ance
xisting residential areas. It does however, r eive
ve use because of the number of family activities
that ccur in Lake Ann Park. Lake Ann Park affords young
opportunity to use the tot lot facilities while other
i1y members participate in other activities such as soft-
11 or swimmi ng.
r-28
omit
/'
I
I.
I
I
I
( (
CITY OF
CHANHASSEN
MINNESOTA .
* Mini-Parks
.
~
~
.
r-29
r
.
Standards suggest .5 acres of mini-park areas for
1000 people. When this is applied to the existing
popu tion level, 3 acres of mini-park shoud be in
existe e. Applying this same standard to the project
populati level, 6 acres will be required by 1990
the presen time, the existing two facilities comp se
approximate1 one acre. These areas were not i uded in
the tabulation the Assessment of Present N chart
because they mee n1y the design criteria a not the
locational requirem ts for mini-park, to ot areas.
Despite this, both se e their intende sers and are in
fact utilized to a sign icant degre
In comparing acreages to present and future
development standards, a defi ncy of 3 - 6 acres
exists. As such, the const ti of additional mini-parks
should be considered to a ommodat both the existing
deficiences and future eds. In co idering future projects
of this nature, the P k and Recreatio Commission should
remain sensitive t he anticipated numbe
within major res. ential areas. This is ne ssary because
of current cha es in demographic patterns in hich increases
are being s in the number of childless house 1ds as
well as i ingle, join~ ownership households, bo
diminis the need for mini-park facilities. At the
time, nticipated elderly populations particularly in .gher
de ty developments should be monitored to address the
entia1 needs of elderly individuals.
omit
I
{
.
Neighborhood Park I Playground
Stdndard: 5 acres/1000 people.
Purpose/Comments: Neighborhood Parks/Playgrounds are recreation-
al facilities which are intended to serve populations residing
within a ~ mile radius of the site. These facilities
typically contain playfield areas which accommodate uses
such as field games, court games, ice skating, picknicking,
play apparatus and in some cases, neighborhood centers.
Although 5 acres is generally recognized as a minimum size,
smaller parcels have proven workable particularly in areas
where larger tracts are impractical due to development
patterns or natural conditions.
14
Existing Supply: Chanhassen currently contains ~ park sites
ranging in size from 2 - 30 acres all of which comprise a total
of ~ acres. An apPlicatr.o f the recommended standard reveals
thatJlh~*.ty should have acres of neighborhood parks in
1990il J;~ and'1 cres by .1rri ~~~e existing land holdings surpass
even the projection by acres. In addition to the neighbor-
hood park sites, Lake Ann Park will serve a secondary function as
; a neighborhood park when residential development expands into the
\~ vacant areas presently surrounding the park.
r-30
( /
J
CITY OF
CHANHASSEN
MINNESOTA
~ Neighborhood Parks
Q] Service Area
update
"
('
~. - -
:.--=... = =-
--~
.
.
.
(
.
(.;'
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(.
,r-31
Need: In the introductory narrative, it was stated that
standards are merely one tool in the comprehensive assess-
ment of future park needs. Chanhassen's neighborhood park
sites graphically depict this fact. Although the city
has adequate land in terms of total acreage requirements,
neighborhood parks/playgrounds will be needed in several
areas because of locational criteria. This situation
will become more evident as the residential base of
the community continues to expand and housing occurs south
of Highway 5.
Areas which are deficient in Neighborhood Park lands are
shown on the map entitled Neighborhood Parks and Service
Areas.
Community Park I Playground
Standard: 7 acres/1000 people.
Purpose/Comments: A Community Park/Playground is a recreational
facility which serves as a focal point (or pOints) of a
community's recreational system. As such, they typically
provide facilities which appeal to a broad spectrum of users.
Activities may include'archery, fishing, nature study,
sailing, soccer, tennis, court games, field games, hiking,
picnicking, and sledding.
Community ParkS/Playgrounds contain facilities designed to
appeal to active and passive users, both of which are often
accommodated on one park site. Typically, the location of
this type of park is determined by the existence of major
natural features or close proximity to population concentrations.
Service areas are generally up to 3 miles with park sites
providing facilities for populations of 12,000 - 25,000
people depending upon size and design considerations.
Existi n9 Supply: ~r facilities are presently categorized
as Community Park/Playgrounds. Lake Ann Park wh~~h lies in
the north central portion of the city contains.'~cres
of passive and active recreational space~... Bluff Creek
Park in the southern section of the community contains 21
acres of passive area. 1'''':1....LI......, ll........... flAili1i!! 'Itil1
.,9 6~1':'.Q. ~r l_..JJ add #5
Additionally, Chanhassen Estates Park which is presently
categorized as a neighborhood park may at some time be
re-categorized as a community park. This change may occur
as the result of the sites development as a natural wetland
interpretive area. Until such development occurs however,
this park site will continue as a neighborhood facility.
15
In 1985 the City added a third carmunity park at the south end of Lotus Lake. .
South Lotus Lake Park, which contains 5 acres, has been classified as a
ccmmmity park because it provides boating access to Lotus Lake. The upper
portion of the park also providest neighborhood recreation for the surrounding
residential area. Chanhassen' s ~r cannn.ni ty parks total.... acres of land.
147
.
(
.
.
r-32
( (
.
'.
CITY OF
CHANHASSEN
MINNESOTA
m Community Parks
update
~_.
~
.. - - _.-
....-----
r-33
(
substitute #6
of the standard for community
for 4 a At
the s a
1 ve net of 35 acres and a 1990 excess 0 . -&:1
esss, Cl.fi"I.1133EI. ..ill 116.e Ii dLfieit of 19 LUll 1:3 of lommYfdt.r IUl'h/
,la~'!r8YA88 Rel8!iBitntiRg additioR81 land IitLpsi3itiel.. AI. ad"it:2'11
.. (I L it It i PI R R P U' It h Ji l' 8 ,. 8 Ii e " . (I '" 8 @ t this R II II" I R i .. e (I i .. & II I;
d.......l.:.~l".-:."t ~.....!,Jdl'-, ti,t.!. ll'''I...:~:t:{)" ":11 :" (111 l:U:I,[){," 6(.~~r
il. 'the earl,;, 1989113.
r,
Lake Ann Park is presently divided into two general areas: the
western half which is wooded accommodating passive uses and the
eastern half which contains areas appropriate for active uses.
The facilities in the eastern half of the park are currently over
use d and are inn e e d 0 f e x pan s ion . .~ e e i t i 8 " a 11 .r, 't ~ e e II,. a R Ii i B R af
to it It eAR " Pi l' II , 8 't R 8 l! & 8 i is , h II I ,,1~' 11 ~ i 1 i 1 a It I f R il t i .. 0 [i R r n I
Bluff e,~~k ru.k "1.:",,1. ~"'Y"~ U~ LI.~ ",ll."". "''''.IIIIIUII:lJ t'u.k ~v""':<Jrs
.r.. I....... :lJ ........J.:.J, if'('L~ .!l..ll.t !l:Iiiah1e In1,:; fir RilliR! anir
JlllUI. .iIIF"itiin.
2,000
Throughout the planning period of this report ~lJ'O), Lake
Ann Park should continue to serve as the city's major
Community Park/Playground. Its location is appropriate to
anyone reSiding within Cttanhasseil's Metropolitan Urban
Service Area. After 1990 however, the community may want
to consider the establishment of a second major community park,
one which would provide both passive and active'uses.
Facility Needs
The needs analysis for the Chanhassen Park System started
out in a general sense by examining the needs for various
types of park facilities. Further analysis will now be
conducted targeting on specific facility needs. Standards
are available for specific types of recreational facilities.
They will not however, be used in this report because their
validity seems to vary widely from community to community.
For example, one national standard calls for one baseball
diamond for every 3,000 people. Applying such a figure
to Chanhassen, the city should contai,n..2nor 3 diamonds.
At the present time, Chanhassen has~ diamonds, all of
which are inadequate to cover existing demand levels.
Because of the questionable nature of specific facility
standards, the Chanhassen Park and Recreation Commission has
drawn up what it views as facility needs by category.
t
.
.
.
.
.
.
16
Need: Appl ica tion of the starrlard for canmunity parks calls for an existing
acreage of 53, a 1990 total of 77 acres and a 2000 acreage of 103. At the
present time, the city has 105 acres in this category for a 1985 positive net
of 52 acres, a 1990 excess of 39 acres and a 2000 excess of 2 acres.
17
Baseball - Softball: The city currently has eleven diamonds which accanmodate
baseball and softball games. The majority of these are scattered throughout
the canmunity in neiglix>rOOod parks with the three diamonds located in Lake
Ann Park util ized primarily for organized league games and tournaments. At
the present time, it is estinated that the City is deficient by 6 diamonds.
Present demand calls for one additional baseball diamond, two regulation
little league fields and three softball fields. It is estinated that by 2000,
the city will need to add 6 - 15 diamonds to cover both existing deficiencies
and additional future denand. This (rojection assumes that a portion of the
existing facilities will be lighted to increase existing efficiency.
r-34
( .
Tennis: Chanhassen currently has five tennis courts serving
the population. Four of these courts are located on the
Chanhassen Elementary School property and are lighted for
night use. One additional court is in lake Ann Park. -A1
thi fr..tAt tim:" ill If t~BEe Ir! h!l~il~ utili.!. .~rin~
~i~~~!~i ~~~~ :r~ :~,~. +~: ;:~~.:~~, ~~~~bstit~te"~.#it.
Picnic Areas: Picnic sites are available in lake Ann Park
as well as in other neighborhood parks scattered throughout
the community. These areas are currently adequate to serve
existing demand. As future facilities are added, additional
picnic areas will be required to serve increased population
levels. add #A
5
Ice Skating: Chanhassen presently contains~family skating
areas and ~hockey ri nks. The demand for hockey faci 1 i ti es
is currently intensive. Additional hockey rinks are needed
to satisfy both short and long term demand. As the community
continues to grow, additional family rinks will be necessary
in concentrated population areas.
Bicycling: In Chanhassen like most communities, bicycling
takes place primarily on. city streets. )(lnt ~ihl..i~. Itlii~j
"~---i"i ~9 I ",I".. ^~~ D......L- +... +...", 1'4,.".,"+......" :IOW''''\. As the city
continues to grow and begins implementation of a comprehensive
trail network, bikeways will need to be added. The
implementation of such a system will assist in assuring the
safety of cyclists.
Q)
gaining .~
currently occur' n the .::J
and Cis i te s . ~ ~
lzed football continues .~ ~
to grow, additional fac' . . e needed. Future park tn I'F
ns should contal'n ate open ..0
that if needed, they can be rea ::J
these sporting activities. tn
Passive Recreation Areas/Nature Study Areas: Chanhassen is
rich in natural amenities which are appropriate for passive,
nature-oriented recreational usage. As the population
continues to grow, additional areas will need to be acquired.
It is particularly important that the usage of passive
areas be closely monitored since such areas have relatively
low carrying capacities and can be easily over used.
Horse Riding: The Park and Recreation Commission feels that
there is a future need for equestrian riding trails. At
the present time, riding is limited primarily to private
~and. The accommodation of future riding areas may be
lmplemented in conjunction with the acquisition of a second
major community park.
.
.
.
.
.
.
u
Picnic shelters should be located in close proximity to tot lot areas.
Shelters may vary from windbreak structures to fully enclosed buildings
depending on intended usage.
18
At the present time, four additional courts are under construction, two at .
Meadow Green Park and two at North Lotus Lake Park. There is an apparent need
for 4-6 additional courts by 2000.
'9
Football/Soccer: Soccer has been gaining popularity in recent years. At the
present time, both league and casual play is acconmodated at fields in city
parks. Most of the fields are under recommended minimum sizes. Two
addi tional full size fields are needed to handle present demand. Prior to
2000, even nore fields will be required. Future park expansions and additions
should contain adequa te open field areas so that when needed, they can be
readily converted to accanm::>date football and soccer.
(
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(
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r-35
.
Snow~obile Trails: Well marked snowmobile trails currently
exist within Chanhassen. These trails are not part of the
park system but are established by a private club utilizing
both public land and privately owned parcels (with owner
consent). This sytem works well at the present time because
of the large expanses of undeveloped land within the community.
As more of these vacant parcels become developed, the city
may need to provide areas appropriate for snowmobile use.
In rent years, bicycle sales have increased dramatically.
A numb of factors account for this; the public has become
increas gly aware of physical fitness, recreation, and
environme tal protection. This awareness has led to
increased essure for bikeways and other routes where
bicycles ca be safely operated.
In recognizing 'nterest in bicycles, the public ha
view them not on as a recreation item but as a
mode for shorter 'stance transportation. Beca e of this,
bikeways could be nsidered in either the re eation or
transportation secti s of this plan. For t purpose of
this report, bikeways re being included i the recreation
section since within Ch hassen, their pr ision falls
under the jurisdiction 0 the parks and ecreation commission.
This is not intended to d, inish their mportance as both
an existing and future tran ortatio mode.
A bikeway by definition, is a
provides for bicycle travel.
bikeway can be anything from
to an area marked by signage
of bikeways are typically r
Class I: The complete s aration of b ycle right-of-way
from pedestrian and ve cular rights-of- ay with the
exception of a minima amount of crossing where necessary.
Class II: A restr cted right-of-way designe
elusive or semi- clusive use of bicycles. T
by motor vehicl s or pedestrians is prohibited
vehicle parki may be permitted.
'Class III: A shared right-of-way designated as
signs pla ed on vertical posts or stencilled on the ve-
mente y bikeway which shares its through traffic r, t-
of-way ith either or both moving (but not parked) moto
vehi es and pedestrians is considered a Class IV bikewa
for the ex-
ough travel
owever,
.
ss I bikeways are usually found in parks, recreation
eas, and in new developments where prior planning permits
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Introduction
.
The 1980 Chanhassen Comprehensive Plan addressed trails in recognition of
increasing public interest. The Plan contained recommendations for
implementation of a moderate system of regional trails and local walkways/bike
paths. The intent of the system was to connect major points of interest
throughout the City (see exhibit 1).
The 1980 Pl an contained goal s and pol icies pertaining to recreation. The
following policies were directly applicable to the trail system:
1. Provide a balanced park system which includes neighborhood parks,
community parks, special use facilities, schools and private
developments; all interconnected by a linear trail network.
2. Abandoned right-of-ways shoul d be preserved for publ ic use whenever
possible.
Since 1980, two events have occurred to further public interest in the
establishment of a trail system. First, Chanhassen has seen unprecedented
growth since 1984. From 1984 through 1986, the City issued 693 building
permits for residential units. This building permit activity is indicative of
the amount of new residential development that has recently been approved. In
reviewing each of these developments, the City's Park Commission, Planning
Commission and City Council all commented on the need for an overall trail .
plan linking neighborhoods and parks.
The second factor contributing to the heightened awareness of trails in the
City of Chanhassen is the development of trail systems in adjacent
communities. Chaska and particularly Eden Prairie have been very active in
developing trail systems. Since many Chanhassen residents pass through both
communities on a regular basis, they see the trails in place and observe them
being used by members of the publ ic.
Increased public awareness of trails has translated directly into increased
demand for such facilities by Chanhassen residents. In April of 1987, the
Ci ty commi ssi oned a scienti fic survey to determine resident interest in park
and recreat ion programs and fac il i ties. Four out of the top seven most
popular activities involved trails. Sixty-eight percent of the residents
indicated that the City has too few bicycle trails and 64% indicated that the
Ci ty has too few wal ki ng trail s. The responses al so indicated that 65% of
Chanhassen1s residents think that more funding should be available for the
development of trails.
.
.
.
.
tr-2
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Walkways/Bike Paths
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Exhibit'1
tr-3
Trail Types
Trail networks can accommodate various transportation modes. Wal king,
jogging, roller skating, bicycling, cross country skiing, snowmobiling and
horseback riding are frequent uses of trail systems. For the purposes of this
plan, trails are categorized into two general classifications:
walkways/bikeways and nature trails.
Wal kways/Bikeways: Walkways/bikeways are trail facilities designed to
accommodate both pedestrian and bicycle usage. Such trail s should be 8 feet
wide and in areas of heavy activity, separate trails for pedestrian and
bicycle usage may be needed. Walkways/bikeways can also accommodate
activities such as roller skating and cross country skiing in the winter.
Nature Trails: Nature trails are designed solely for pedestrian usage. They
can be used for functional purposes such as trips to school but in most cases
they are designed for purely recreational usage. In the southern port ion of
Chanhassen, for example, they may be used to provide public pedestrian access
to areas isolated by extreme topography, tree cover or other factors.
In addition to the two major types of trails, special use corridors may also
exist. Special use corridors may accanmodate activities such as snowmobile
trails, equestrian trails and trails for exclusive use of cross country
skiers.
This plan does not specifically address special use corridors. At the present
time, the provision of such facilities is not financially feasible. Of the
type s of s peci al use corridors avail abl e, snoWllobil e trail s are currentl y the
most popular. The City of Chanhassen cooperates with private clubs to
designate snoWllobile routes which connect to routes in adjacent canmunities.
Because of the significant amount of vacant and rural land within Chanhassen,
snowmobil ing can be accanmodated without interference with urban residential
neighborhoods. As the cOOlTlunity continues to grow and additional residenti al
areas are established, suitable snoWllobile trails will becane harder to find.
It is realistic to assume that at sane point in the future when the community
becomes 1 argel y urban, snoWllobil ing wi 11 be confi ned to speci fic park areas.
Until that time occurs, the Park and Recreation Canmission should continue to
work with the local snowmobile clubs to establish appropriate routes.
.
.
.
tr-4
. Existing System
At the present time, Chanhassen has small segments of both walkway/bikeway
trails and nature trails. Exhibits 2 and 3 depict the alignments of the
existing trail systems. Existing trails include the following:
Trail: lake Ann Park Connection
Type: Walkway/Bikeway
Description: The lake Ann Park connection is a 4 foot wide, 2,700 foot long
trail connecting the entrance of lake Ann Park and the intersection area of
County Road 17 and West 78th Street. This trail is detached from but within
the right-of-way limits of T.H. 5.
.
Trail: lake Ann/Greenwood Shores Park
Type: Walkway/Bikeway
Description: This trail which was installed in 1985 connects lake Ann Park
and Greenwood Shores Park covering a total distance of 2,200 feet. The trail
is bituminous surfaced and is 6 feet in width. In addition to the paved
trail, a wood chip walkway parallels the alignment of the walkway/bikeway.
The old wood chip trail is used primarily by joggers.
Trail: lake lucy Road
Type: Walkway/Bikeway
Description: lake lucy Road was upgraded in 1987 from County Road 17 to
Galpin Boulevard (Co. Rd. 117). As part of the road improvement project, a 6
foot wide walkway/bikeway was constructed immediately adjacent to the traffic
1 anes on both sides of the street. The traffic lane is separated from the
walkway/bikeway by painted striping. Additionally, signage is used to alert
motorists of the possible presence of pedestrians and bicycles.
Trail: Kerber Boulevard
Type: Walkway/Bikeway
Description: The Kerber Boulevard trail segment extends along the street from
County Road 17 to a point opposite Buckingwood Court. The trail consists of a
6 foot wide bituminous pathway that is immediately adjacent to the top of the
curb.
Trail: lake Drive East
Type: Wal kway/Bi keway
Description: In conjunction with the lake Drive East street improvement, a 6
foot wide concrete sidewalk/trail was install ed along the north side of the
street. This trail segment currently extends from T.H. 101 to Dakota Avenue.
Trail: Carver Beach
Type: Nature Trail
Description: Carver Beach Park contains a wood chip trail extending the
length of the park from the northern to the southern boundary. The trail
which parallels lotus lake passes through steep terrain areas and is suitable
only for pedestrian use.
.
tr-5
Trail: Fox Chase Trail
Type: Nature Tra il
Description: Fox Chase Trail consists of a wood chip pathway extending from .
Fox Path to the southern end of the subdivision. At its existing terminus,
the trail is approximately 200 feet from the northern terminus of the Carver
Beach Trail. Although the trail is presently surfaced with wood chi ps, the
alignment is level and could easily accommodate a paved walkway/bikeway in the
fut ure.
l'1 nil. '.IeaterA lIill. PeRi substitute, #8
ilf J 1'''' . flu t.... Z. l'1 [. H
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.
.
.
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Trail: Chanhassen Pond
Type: Na ture Tra il
Description: Chanhassen Pond Park contains a wood chip trail which extends
around a portion of the pond area.
tr-6
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CHAMiASSEN
MIE ...
.1987. Existing
Walkways/Bikeways
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Exhibit 3
Proposed System
tr-a
.
Chanhassen's ultimate traj1 system is shown on Exhibit 6. The system provides
trails connecting major parks, neighborhoods, commercial areas and regional
points of interest. Additionally, it provides trail connections to adjacent
municipalities and to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Chanhassen's trail plan contains a combination of trail segments located along
streets, within parks and trails that are located between private lot lines.
Advantages and disadvantages of each of these types of trails are listed
below.
Trail Location
Advantages
o Easy monitoring
o Readily identifiable route
o Easier to finance -
construction can be
combined with street
improvements
Along Streets
Within Parks
o Few vehicle conflicts
o Tra i1 scan foll ow natural
features such as
drainageways
o Development cost may be
grant eligible
Between Lot Lines
o Few vehicle conflicts
o Trails can follow natural
features such as
drainageways
Disadvantages
o Motor vehicle conflicts
o Maintenance may require
specialized equipment
o Abutting property
conf1 icts
o Very difficult to
moni tor
o Public familiarity
requires promotional
effort
.
o Abutting property
confl icts
o Perceived security
problems
o Additional sidewalk
system may be needed
o Higher level of
maintenance required
In order to ensure uniformity and safe use of trails by members of the public,
the Chanhassen trail system will be developed under a uni form set of
standards. Although the standards may be impractiCal in some cases, every
effort will be made to see that all new walkway/bikeway trails are constructed
in accordance with the following:
1. Trails will be 8' wide to accommodate two-way bicycle and pedestrian
traffic. Six foot wide trails will be constructed only to adapt to
the continuity of existing 6' trails.
2. Wal kway/Bikeway trail s will be separated from motor vehicle traffic
thus reducing conflicts and interactions with these transportation
modes.
.
tr-9
.
3. Avoid long steep grades; 6.0% maximum slope preferred, 8~ maximum
where unavoidable by existing terrain.
4. Use fl atter grade or slope at intersection wi th streets or other
trail way; 2.0% maximum to allow adequate time to stop.
5. For drainage purposes, 1.0% preferred minimum slope; not less than
0.5% to be used.
6. Use 0.02'/foot minimum cross-slope or crown; 0.041/foot maximum.
7. Provide clearance for vertical obstructions (trees, power poles,
signs, etc.); four-foot preferred minimum, two-foot absolute minimum
for bicycle facilities.
8. Shape and compact subgrade to 100~ standard density. Excavate and
remove all topsoil, black dirt, peat, muck or silt soils from
beneath pathway; backfill with select grading material.
9. Provide positive surface water drainage away from trailway with
shallow drainage swales or ditches, culverts and/or storm sewer as
requi red. Subgrade of trail way to be mi n imum of two feet above
water table.
.
10. Avoid sharp or sudden changes in horizontal and vertical al ignment.
Provide adequate site distance for bicycles at intersections and on
vertical changes in alignment. Extra width and/or flatter curves
required on long downhill slopes for additional reaction space.
11. Bicycle trails to be marked and signed in accordance with the manual
on Uniform traffic control Devices, latest edition.
12. Minimum standards shall be increased as necessary where required by
poor subgrade soil, traffic volumes, hazardous conditions, or other
speci al circumstances.
.
tr-10
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: I Bicycle Width
: yManeuvering Area
: : ~Minimum Paved Surface
: r ,Clearance
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3'-6-
REQUIRED CLEARANCES
No Scale
.
R.O.W. Varies
Varies
8'-0-
3- Bituminous
Compacted Class 5
10'-0-
-
Compacted Subgrade
W ALKW A Y IBIKEW A Y TYPICAL SECTION
No Scale
.
Ex hibit 4
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Trail Plan
Phase 1
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CHAMiASSEN
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Trail Plan
Total System
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Exhibit 6
tr-13
. Implementation/Capital Costs
.
.
The propo sed Chanhassen trail system is extensive. Therefore, impl ementati on
is dependent upon priorities and funding levels. Trail segments have been
broken down into three phases with the phase one improvements being the
highest priority. In order to prioritize trail segments, the Park and
Recreation Commission evaluated each segment considering the following
factors:
1. Safety
2. Property Owner Acceptance
3. Capital Cost
4. Maintenance Cost
5. Continuity with Existing Chanhassen Trails
6. Number of Users Served
7. Linkage with Regional or other Municipal Trails
8. Accommodation of School Pedestrian Traffic
Phase 1 is shown on Exhibit 5. Improvements programmed for Phase 1 are
proj ected for compl eti on between 1988 and 1992. The specific construction
sequence for Phase 1 trails is addressed in the City's Capital Improvement
Program. This sequence is dependent upon a number of factors including
development patterns, schedul ed street improvement projects and the reeei pt of
applicable state and federal grants.
Funding Sources
The City of Chanhassen has a variety of financial tools available to fund the
construction of a trail system. The following is a brief comment on each of
these sources.
Park Improvement Bonds - Municipalities commonly utilize Park Improvement
Bonds for construction of major facil ities. The authority to sell such bonds
usually requires voter approval. Chanhassen has not had a Park Bond Issue
since the late 1960's when Lake Ann Park was originally acquired and
developed.
tr-14
General Fund Money - If trails were determined to be a community priority, the
City Council could allocate an mount of money from the General Fund for
construction purposes.
LAWCON/LCMR Grants - Trail s are still grant-el igible items under the
LAWCON/LCMR Grant program. In order to enhance the probabil ity of trail s
being funded, most cOOTllunities combine them with other improvements which
enhance public access to lakes.
Park Dedication Fees - Park dedication fees collected from residential,
commercial and industrial development can be applied to the construction of
trail systems. In lieu of a cash contribution, a municipality can negotiate
to have the developer prov ide the 1 and and install the trail s as a part of
overall park credits.
Reserve Funds - Reserve funds which have been accumulated from a variety of
sources can be used to construct trail systems.
Tax Increment Financing - Chanhassen's downtown area and two industrial parks
are located within tax increment financing (TIF) districts. Within these
areas, trails can be funded through excess increment should such funds be
available.
.
Street Improvements - Street improvement projects have been responsible for
most of Chanhassen's existing walkway/bikeway system. lake Lucy Road which is
the most recent example of a state aid funded road contains walkways/bikeways
wi thi n the proj ect. Trail improvements conducted simul taneously wi th street .
improvements is the most economical method of constructing trails.
Intergovernmental Coordination - Coordination and cooperation between various
governmental entiti es can be an effective method of constructing trail s. It
is fairly common for cities and school districts to jointly fund trail systems
which benefit both parties.
Ca pita 1 Cost
The cost of constructing trail segments varies significantly due to the
availability of land, terrain, tree cover and street crossings. For the
purposes of thi s report, the cost of an 8 foot wide bituminous trail varies
from $6.00 per square yard to $10.00 per square yard dependi ng on exi st i ng
conditions. This equates to a total walkway/bikeway trail construction cost
of $28,000 to $47,000 per mile. The cost of nature trails is approximately
$3.00 per square yard or approximately $7,000 per mile.
.
.
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tr-15
The total cost of Phase 1 as shown on Exhibit 5 is $1,341,000.
Implementation of Phase 1 of the trail system will require a substantial
commitment by the City of Chanhassen and its residents. Although a variety of
funding techniques can be used, development of a trail system of this
magnitude will require the sale of bonds. Of the total Phase 1 costs,
$240,000 can be funded from excess tax increments, $200,000 of development can
be funded by anticipated trail dedication fees and $33,000 can be funded by
existing funds and Chapter 429 assessments. This results in the balance of
$868,325 to be funded by other methods.
Ir-1 6
Maintenance Costs
.
In impl ementing a trail system, it is important to consider maintenance costs
in addition to capital costs. Maintenance costs are the direct result of the
level of maintenance desired. Some maintenance of trails is optional such as
winter plowing to accanmodate walking and jogging. Other types of maintenance
such as seal coating and filling are required in order to protect the City's
investment.
The installation of a trail system will also result in increased manpower
requirements. In addition to maintenance personnel involved in sweeping, seal
c.oating, plowing, etc., inspection personnel may also be necessary.
Experience in adjacent municipalities has shown that one full-time person is
required during the summer months to travel the trail system and to make minor
repairs such as sweeping up glass, sand and debris.
In order to provide an example of potential maintenance cost requirements, the
following scenario for the phase one trail system is presented. Phase one
involves the construction of 28.2 miles of off-street trails. If the City
establishes a policy of seal coating trails every five years, 5.5 miles of
seal coating will occur on an annual basis (starting in 1992). At current
(1987) costs, the total annual cost of seal coating would be $30,225.
When a substantial portion of phase one is canplete, it will be necessary to .
add seasonal personnel for minor repairs. At a 1987 wage rate of $4.00 per
hour, the annual cost of additional personnel is $2,800.
Additional equipment will al so be required to maintain the trail system. For
the purpose of this example, it is assumed that winter plowing will either not
occur or will occur only in selected areas where it is possible to utilize
existing personnel and equipment. It will still be necessary to provide a
"Cushmanll type of vehicle for trail inspection and minor repairs. The total
cost of $4,500 for such a vehicle ammorti zed over a 10 year period results in
an additional annual expenditure of $450.
The preceding example is not intended to be a precise accounting of
anticipated maintenance costs resulting fran the implementation of the phase
one tra i1 pl an. In general, however, it does resul tin increased maintenance
costs totalling $33,475 per year.
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Bikeway Classification
Class I
I
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I
I
Blk...y
Walk
Roadway
-
Class III
- Total separat;on I d;v;d;ng str;p
between r;ght-of-ways on separate
surfaces.
II - Total or part;al separat;on I Ad-
jacent, but separated r;ght-of-ways
on same surface.
Class III - Part;al or no separat;on I shared
r;ght-of-way on same surface.
omit
r-37
allocation of the required areas. In areas of existing
de lopment, Class I routes may be unfeasible due to cost
phys'cal barriers. Under these conditions, Class II bike
may b appropriate. Class III bikeways provide the grea -
est ha rd to the cyclist and should be used only wher
Class I r II routes are inappropriate. Class III bi
may also used as a temporary measure until fiscal
capabiliti permit the construction of safer clas routes.
.
In a general panning sense, four
examined in con idering bikeways:
1. Safety - The gree of safety offered t bicyclists,
principally the amo t of protection from otor vehicles,
should be the primar consideration in t provision of
bikeways.
2. Environmental Attrac 'veness - A hough bicycles are
used as a transportation m de, many eople ride for the
enjoyment and recreational of the activity. Be-
cause of this, it is importa t t bike routes provide
pleasant scenery, especially s ce their speed of travel
permits a more thorough exami 'on and enjoyment of natural
features.
Chanhassen
.
( (
3. System Continuity
bicycle movement should
which is continuous wi
4. Cost - A substa ial variation in cos
the different type of bikeway routes. On
basis, these cost must be weighed against
y, aesthetics, and system
occurs between
case by case
e estimated
co tinuity.
At the pre one bikeway exists within the ity of
Chanhass This route which is a Class I bikeway, uns
paralle to Highway 5 from County Road 17 west to Lak Ann
Park. he existing pavement is bituminous concrete ap ox-
imat y four feet in width. A proposal is currently be g
rev' wed to widen the existing path and establish plantin
al g its route. The generalized alignment of the Lake An
ke path can be seen on the accompanying map.
I
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CITY OF
CHANHASSEN
MINNESOTA
Lake Ann Bikeway
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2000
-=199& Recreation Open Space Plan
What does the future hold for the Chanhassen Park System? There is
no simple response to this question. Its answer will hopefully be
supplied, at least in part, by the recreation plan offered on the
following pages. In previous material, the Chanhassen Park System
has been identified and examined. Discussions have touched upon
the supplies of existing facilities, present and future needs,
physical characteristics, and socio-economic demand, all of which
aid in the identification of a future action plan. This material,
coupled with the identified goals and objectives, forms the basis
for the recreation plan.
The overall theme of the Chanhassen Park System may be best
described as one which is "balanced". The community is striving
to obtain an effective balance regarding both the locations of
facilities as well as the types of facilities provided. Further-
more, balance relates to being able to identify when a facility
is being over used as such an occurence can actually destroy the
natural character that makes a park attractive in the first place.
Balance can also be described as diversity. Diversity in this
case, meaning the provision of facilities which exhibit a variety
of density; a system which contains facilities ranging from
bustling athletic fields to the tranquil solitude of a nature
trail. The integration of all of these elements can fulfill the
goal of a balanced recreational system; one which is responsive
to the recreational needs of all Chanhassen residents.
.
In identifying Chanhassen's existing and future needs for park
facilities, a number of basic points were identified:
-"\ essentia lIy
1. That the City's total park system will be deficient in acreage
iR the iil'lr lPP("Ii.. by 2000
2. That a surplus of land for neighborhood parks exists however,
the locations of eXisting facilities will not be convenient
for future residential areas and hence, additional neighbor-
hood parks will be required.
3. That the City has begun to implement a comprehensive trail
network which will connect major facilities and natural
amenities.
4. That the City needs to expand its existing community park in
order to satisfy both present and future demand levels.
of
n existing and
mini-parks which
. . lties.
Based upon these points and specifically identified site and
facility needs, the following plan has been developed.
r-39
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r-40
General Observations and Recommendations
1.
Continue to urge the active support of civic organizations
into the process of developing and maintaining the Chanhassen
park system. The Lions Club has been active in the construc-
tion of tot lot facilities in Lake Ann Park, the Association
of Parent Teachers has provided hockey equipment, and the
Chanhassen Athletic Association has supplied numerous equip-
ment items in recent years. The interest shown by these
and other groups should be encouraged because it both involves
the citizens with the recreation system and at the same time,
removes some of the financial burdens such a system forces
upon the City budget. add #C
Continue to encourage future commerCial'~dustrial' and
residential developments to set aside tra ts of land to serve
as recreation areas or; at the discretion of the City, to
provide a fee in lieu of land dedication. As growth continues
throughout the community, parcels of neighborhood park lands
will become increasingly important to serve the recreational
needs of the community and additional funds to develop these
facilities will be required.
Establish and implement a system of uniform signs designating
the locations and features of parks and recreation areas.
Information such as the facility name, date of establishment
and other pertinent historical data may be included. A
system of unified signs will aid both residents and visitors
in identifying different use areas.
4. In the past, Chanhassen has been very successful in securing
land for park development. Because the emphasis has been
placed on acquisition, very little money for development has
been available. Thii hili 1..... t'j' ~ t:it..j't.;...." "~'J"''''' +1.,
~g~.....IRit.r it: litgr"llr li'l'~ "'i"'~ I?"+ .f:",..';1-;+j' p^^r .
substitute #D
With the delineation of the MUSA line in Chanhassen,
geographic limits to the community's growth have been defined.
As a result of this, the community is now better equipped to
predict and control where and when development will occur.
This process should permit the Park and Recreation Commission
to concentrate more on Obtaining development monies instead
of land in areas where such action seems appropriate. It is
anticipated that the community will now begin to require more
developers to provide money in lieu of previously accepted land
parcels in fulfillment of dedication requirements. In some
cases, the City may elect to accept a combination of land and
funds.
2.
3.
5. The City should develop an overall master plan and planting
program for all park facilities. Deciduous and evergreen
species as well as mass shrub plantings should be considered
in order to provide shade, texture, color, and other aesthetic
Ie
Continue to enforce trail fee requirements in order to fund future expansion
of Chanhassen's trail system.
ID
Over the next 10 years, Chanhassen will emphasize development of existing park
parcels in accordance with adopted park master plans. Additional park areas
will be acx;Juired as new areas of the City experience expanded development.
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r-41
and functional values. Plans for park facilities should serve
to integrate and maximize both the natural environment and man
made facilities on the site.
6.
Vandalism in park facilities can be a major concern. While
there are no direct means of eliminating acts of vandalism,
certain techniques can be employed to reduce the frequency of
such occurrences. Essentially, such actions can be broken down
into two categories: the destruction of plant materials and
the damage to structures.
One of the most frequently recorded types of park vandalism
involves damage to turf areas by automobiles or other vehicles.
Such damage is sometimes accidental occurring during peak
demand periods. The best way to minimize the impact of this
problem is to provide clearly defined and adequately sized
roadway and parking areas and to provide structural barriers
at high traffic points such as intersectiohs. Legible, easily
seen signage prohibiting parking outside defined lot areas
also can help.
Young plant materials present another problem. The plants that
are often installed in parks are of a very small caliber.
Frequently, before a tree or shrub has had enough time to
establish itself, it is broken off and destroyed. A solution
to this problem is to plant adequately sized nursery stock
or if smaller materials are used, to stake and/or box in
young plantings with a fencing material which allows them to
grow to a sufficient size. A more successful method of main-
taining these plant materials, particularly in high traffic
areas, involves the use of mass plantings. Specimen plants
or isolated species are the primary targets of vandals.
Experience has shown that plants which are massed or grouped
are less likely to be bothered.
Preventing the vandalism of structures and equipment is an
equally difficult task. The best method of accomplishing
thi~ i~volves the use of maintenance, lighting, and patrols.
Structures and equipment that are well maintained tend to
evoke a spirit of community pride and are less likely to be
damaged than those that are allowed to fall into a state of
disrepair. The additional combination of adequate lighting
which eliminates shadowed areas and regular police patrols
help to reduce this problem.
7. As future park sites are developed, traffic control devices
will be necessary in high traffic volume areas to insure
the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists.
8. The City should continue to maintain a balanced recreational
system which appeals to a broad base of the popu~ation and
provides recreational opportunities for both actlve and
passive users.
r-42
10.
9. Recreational areas should contain facilities for commercial \
and industrial users as well as those for the residential
population. i~
The Park Commission should attempt to maximize community
awareness in recreation programs and municipal facilities as
well as in regional facilities such as the Arboretum and
Minnewashta Regional Park through the quarterly newsletter,
local newspapers, and other appropriate sources.
11.
Convenient pUblic access should be provided to each of the
City's lakes.
,1 ~ .
omit
IR 8v~ev to lYoi~ fwtwrQ pro~lomt iA~ Uti r~A~lirtr. tAR
III , J iI' a 1 t 11 e 1 8 f f e tIe 8 t i 8 n 8 1 8 e t i OJ i t! Y 8 fI t 8 e R 1 a It e !J R 8 kt1~ d
ht fJe9i!lRit8l1. substitute #E
:::.~~t~h~::~~d.~g~~~:~:.:~;~~:.;~:!r~~~"::.:~l .~~,~~~-
Ji f1 11 k e P a v It" T.r R i & A A Q i SAt i A r ~ Q m m" 0'\ .; + .)' :u..::l '" '" n '" C C n ~ p ::Ill' k
faeililiee JRfi i~ti"i.ies.
~
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13.
Efforts should be made to promote community awareness of the
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Recreation Area
and to solicit resident support behind the timely planning,
acquisition, and implementation of the project.
( (
Existing Parks: Recommendations
Cathcart Park
Cathcart Park represents a rather unique situation in that the park
lies within the m un1c1pal limits of Chanhassen but is maintained by
and actually owned by the City of Shorewood. This arrangement has
worked well in recent years as the facility has adequately served the
needs of both northwestern Chanhassen and Shorewood residents. Based
upon thfs~ no change in this park is recommended under this plan.
1
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12. The City srou1d continue to enlist the support of all community groups in
promoting special events. Events like the golf tournament, Winterfest
and the Fourth of July celebration help to increase the public's
awareness of Chanhassen' s p:lrks and programs.
r-43
1. A planting plan and implementation program should be instituted
with major emphasis on shrub and understory plantmaterials.
2. The existing summer picnic facilities and winter ice skating
rink should be continued with future emphasis on construction
of a multi-purpose picnic shelter/warming house.
3. The Minnewashta Heights Park will probably never be heavily
used. The most intensive use is likely to occur in the winter
months during ice skating season. As such, it's most important
function will continue to be its service as an open space area;
a gateway to the Minnewashta Heights neighborhood areas. There-,
fore, future expenditure priorities should be on implementing a I
planting program rather than installing active play devices.
( (
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Minnewashta Heights
e:
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Herman Field
\..
mended that Herman Field which is currently ra
be develope rhood park/pla fi , his site
will serve the surroundin an will additionally,
provide faci . . se by the entire . A detailed
n should be established to guide overall ev
substitute -#11
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111
In 1984 a master plan was prepared for HeI'IIBn Field which, to date, has not
been implemented. The master plan calls for a park which will be a unique
canponent in the Chanhassen system. '!he park plan emphasizes creative play
through a series of activity stations. Additionally, a small ball diamond,
picnic area, picnic shelter and parking lot will serve adjacent neighborhood
areas.
Specific recanmendations for Herman Field are as follows:
1. Implement the 1984 master plan.
2. Prepare and implement a landscaping plan for the facility.
( ,
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'.
following facilities are recommended for inclusion in such a
1.
or three baseball/softball diamonds should
et both existing and future demand levels.
onl high quality ball diamonds are located in
addit nal facilities are needed.
2. A picni area including a small shelter should be
on the we ern end of the park. This area consis
facing slo which drops to a small impondment ea located
just off of e site. This natural terrain br k will help
delineate the assive picnic space from the a ively oriented
facilities to e east.
be constru
Currentl
Lake An
3.
An effort should
the residential use
Herman Field located
ientaccess to the pa
east of Highway 41.
Future planning and facili
should avoid the duplicatio
Regional Park. In general,
not necessarily found in mun.
the planning phases of bot par
tion does not occur.
enient link between
located in northwe ern Chanhassen and
Add. ionally, safe, conven-
id tified for users residing
4.
in Herman Field
in the Minnewashta
contain facilities
al parks. Coordination during
should insure that duplica-
.
5.
Restrooms and drinking sho ld be included in an over-
all development progr . Temporary r trooms can be used until
permanent facilities are constructed.
6.
7.
ucted on the site.
A parking lot would serve primarily
tennis courts hould be constructed utilizing
street righ of-way for access.
Since Her an Field is presently a pasture area wit
no vege tion, the implementation of a planting pro
conjun ion with facility development is particularl
ball diamonds and
he existing
8.
little or
am in
important.
9. Com n access between the Minnewashta Regional Park and
Fi d should be avoided in order to enhance the individua
entification of the two facilities. Herman Field is des
rimarily to serve Chanhassen residents unlike the Minnewas a
facility which is oriented toward a regionally based populati
.
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_ Carver Beach Neighborhood Park
Carver Beach Neighborhood Park should continue to serve as an
active play area for th~ surrounding residential area. At the
present time its users are composed primarily of young children.
Since the park is surrounded by an established neighborhood, the
installation of seating and the provision of specifiC recreational
programs may increase the usage of the site by' elderly individuals.
1. Implement a planting program for the park site. At the present
time, vegetation exists only around the perimeter areas.
Additional shrub and tree cover could be accommodated within
the park, particularly on the western end.
2. The Carver Beach Neighborhood Park lacks definition on the
northern boundary adjacent to Hiawatha Drive. In order to
clearly define the park as a separate use from the residential
a rea, plant materi a 1 s and! or a rchi tectura 1 ba rri ers s houl d be
installed.
3. Maintenance efforts should concentrate on the fencing in the
ball diamond area. This chain link fence is of an age where
ongoing maintenance will be required in order to maintain its
satisfactory function and appearance.
4. New play equipment should be installed in the park.
5. The Park and Recreation Commission should consider the inclusion
of "cultural" recreation programs at the Carver Beach site.
Such programs could be tailored to both young and old partici-
pants ~nd may consist of such items as lectures, craft and
hobby programs, evening movies, and other social gatherings.
The Carver Beach Residents Association should be contacted
about the planning of and participation in such events.
r-46
6. Construct a picnic shelter.
addl4r
t
Lotus.
Carver Beach
.
Carver Beach has two primary functions: first, it serves as the
swimming area for the surrounding neighborhood; secondly, it has
helped to preserve a significant portion of the 1akeshore on Lotus
Lake. The following recommendations are offered in the interest
of enhancing both of these functions.
The mini beach on the northern end of the park site should be
ved and the overnight beaching of boats should be proh. ed.
The . beach area presents a continued maintenance a nforce-
ment pro The large swimming beach at the so n end of
the park ate to serve the need for as. ing facility.
The boat e park should be
to accommodate the hand .
craft but should not be ()rJllt
designed to accommodate t ered s. The location of this
access requires trave rough a subs a1 portion of the
Carver Beach Nei ood where street wi are generally
limited to 18- feet. Because of this, the e ing access
riate for widespread pUblic use. An . ional
serve trai1ered boats should be located on
( (
The Carver Beach site presents a challenge in several ways. While
the site totals 7.8 acres, it occupies a lineal strip of land
containing steep slopes. The width of the park varies from a
minimum of 30 feet to a maximum of 200 feet. These factors combine
to dictate a rather limited number of uses for the park site.
2.
\
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7. Existing regula tions should be stringently enforced in order to avoid
park/neighborhood conflicts.
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omit
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r-47.
3. Additional picnic facilities should be added at the beach area,
4.
The shore1and area of the park should be retained in its natural
state. The preservation of the 1akeshore and the vegetation it
contains helps control the quality and rate of runoff into the
lake. Lotus Trail which is an unpaved street that abuts the
park is sUbject to significant runoff and soil erosion.
5.
A pedestrian/bicycle trail should be installed traversing the
site from north to south. This trail will form a link in
Chanhassen's overall trail network which will eventually con-
nect to other significant points throughout the community.
, slJbstitute =#=r. .
1ng ~rea ln tne sou1thern sectlon
1y discon 1 ction of the City
of the parking lot shou
p1antings and '
o
of the park was r
Co v1dence
ep1aced by appropriate
rther deter
ln
ake Park is presently undeveloped. 23
acres rolling land bounded on the south by Lotus Lake, isting
residentl development on the east and west, and propo residen-
tial deve10 ent on the north. Because of t~e'parks ge size
and distant ation from other prominent Chanhasse ark facilities
Lotus Lake Par~ an be expected to playa major rein the City's
future park syste
to
development and a
d be developed, endorsed
and City Council, and
1an covering facili
planting plan for L s Lake Park sh
by the Park and Recre .on Commisso
implemented.
Activities accommodated wit
both the surrounding neig
community as a whole.
The installation of ctive
include but not limited
soccer, hockey d tennis.
faci .ties on the site should
oftball, footba~l,
4. In previou planning efforts, Lotus Lake Par as been identified
. e for a future boat access on Lotus e. There has
e controversy over the shallowness of the ake adjacent
park site and the necessary fill or dredgin equired to
m e the access usable. The City should strive to co lete the
ecessary planning, engineering, and design of the facl 'ty as
soon as possible so that an alternative access point can
identified if required.
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6.
Larrlscaping soould be added near the parking area.
112
(
North Lotus Lake Padt
18
North Lotus Lake Park contains ~ acres of rolling land bounded on the south
by Lotus Lake and by residential development on all other sides. A master
plan for the park was prepared in 1985 and the site was graded in the summer
of 1987. Facility construction is presently underway. Plans call for two
tennis courts, a softball field/soccer field, skating rink, sliding hill,
picnic area, picnic/warming shelter arrl parking. In the future, public water
arrl sanitary facilities should be provided within the park.
(
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5.
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) owns land on the
eas shores of Lotus Lake. The DNR has stated that it
provide ublic access if the City fails to do so. It.
the City's st interest to provide the access becau lt then
retains prima ontrol over the facility's desi operating
hours, and manage t.
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Chaparral Park c of 18.2 acres of undeve . In
the area surrounding the approx 5 housing units
are presently being constru construction activity which
1s proceeding at ace, will hav ffect of quickly
suppl i sers in an area of the communi previously
. e or no demand existed. In order to meet this new d
substitute .-#-13
113
Meadow Green Parle
.
(
20
Meadow Green Park consists of ~ acres of land surrounded by residential
development. Existing facilities incl.two diam:>nds, picnic tables, a
basketball court and parking. r . , two tennis courts ...were
being constructed in the park. Future imp:-ovements should include a picnic
shelter, paving the parking lot and landscaping.
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r-49
recreational facilities, the City of Chanhassen will have to
mptly in order to supply needed facilities and services
1. The Ci of Chanhassen should prepare, adopt, and be imple-
menting a velopment and planting program for Ch rral Park.
Particular e asis should be placed upon the nting plan
since the portio the site lying west of rber Drive
contains little or na~ural vegetation
2.
areas suitable for
ast of Kerber
s .
3. In conjunc . n with the grading of the surrounding idential
areas, a eement was reached to have the developer ~ra the
park e west of Kerber Drive. Facilities located within is
ar include ball diamonds, tennis courts, parking, ice skat,
trailway, open space, and picnicking.
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Greenwood Shores Park
Greenwood Shores Park although not large in size, is an important
component of the Chanhassen park system. As future development
takes place and additional contiguous recreational lands are ac- "
quired, its role will become even more significant. .
1. Greenwood Shores Park is presently serving as a neighborhood
park for the surrounding area. Thh Z'lIutit'R i[ lilt;l)' tt' It?
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2.
IlIlIln... il. ilu fl::llulL Rl ll.... a:lJ .......,..:...... ...JJ:l:.......l t"...ll
J1rr"'. r-Iln. Lilli ~ll. I..j :l1rl-...-..L J. _.............l:..;:I l._:l ~J_l_l.l.
. subsll~ute #H .
T~g pilr~H~g H'Oil it t~i FU' JC t1iiR G~11R8d off lRd t~1?'lbd
r?t ~g ~gQP9R9~ T~g grti\~lir~~gRt gf FirkiRg iR ~~igr~nqd
"ursB \i~ililh serves "rima!'il)' ao a "3061\'8 faBility t:8~1.
80 dBtrimeRtil te het~ t~e In!'/( aRe the 61:f!'vBI:fAliIiR9 RiigRII.r-
h d II . ~ I' j . ~ . . . ~ ~ ~ . . . ~ ~ - .. ... .. ~ ,..; .....,
00. ......_ ,,_ 11. 1 J..1 U nil. r . fir lil
t - I, ... :. .... r... k, t" J.. k : " ! ...!. _ 1 J t"':' ~ _ 1. .. I! .!. .:. .!1! I"! L 1 ! m _I L. k e
J~ I Plrl! 1Jhi,h ftn"r,h 1I~'\Iilli'n "hr."Jh ",hi,l. r'--~"'i.
.
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3. As additional development takes place within the area, efforts
should be made to acquire additional land west of Greenwood
Shores Park on the divide between Lakes Lucy and Ann.
4. Within the boundaries of the existing park, access to Lake
Lucy should be provided. This access should accommodate
pedestrians only and should permit the hand launching of
canoes, fishing and observation of the lake.
5. Additional picnic facilities should be added to the park.
Emphasis should also be placed upon developing a planting
pla~ for the picnic area.
aad #1 .
imming beach presently on Lake Ann.
land is acq ting Lake nwood
Shores Park, it is recom use of .the existing
beach be di . . wimming shou . d to Lake
were adequate facilities and supervision
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The idea for Lake Ann Park was conceived in the late 1960's.
Shortly thereafter, voters approved a bond issue for the acquisition
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2. Off street parking in Greenwood Shores Park has been a controversial
issue in recent years. If an effective solution is found to neigttx:>rmod
concerns, limited off street parking smuld be made available.
II
6. Consideration should be given to adding play equipment adjacent to the
beach area.
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of the land as well as the planning and construction of facilities.
Since that time, Lake Ann Park has been developed into a community .
facility of uncompromising quality. In order to maintain the parks
attractive appearance and to enhance its function, the following
should be considered.
1. The general use pattern of Lake Ann Park defines the western
half for passive uses such as hiking and nature study and
the eastern half for active pursuits such as softball, tennis,
etc. This pattern should be continued in the future. ~
If (.. L 111 ,n.... .. t tal,...... t' 1 _...... :.. ll.... _......, .. d d i l i ....... 1 1 _.. J r.... _ ... It. \.
-'III Ih.uli ~I II~uirli ". "hI .1." Ini liii"i.nll 'lI.i".
.11.. a .:. I. v _ 1 J L... .. J J... J l v ll.... ........ l. T I.... tl...... d... .......:. l : .:... .r. r "'Ie
IRI.P'I.li1l. .11"itA ilf!nlifiai I illfiliL!.I':' If 18 II._! If
Jf'i--"-it~. flrh liln~ ~r 1ClOCl. Thil fiJurl Itllul~ ~I "il 'Ii .s
. IIil i n i m J m 1 u i J _ 1 : .. _ :.. I... _ _1..1..... .. j : .. ~ r.. L....:. ... -1I1!..! it..! J
2. A detailed facility and planting plan should be developed for
future park expansion. .:..J._ .__:~.....lill i!.J!l.,maAt ,r.lluI1l3
6-- L..-:-O In-'II~ ". UII I"". inuuiia!.!.. It'lL!.t:..... .:.1.!!.ulJ bl
1[-1"':"'1..1 in "hi" ~irll"i'fl (U3JII"I~ z.Iili";1I z,_ ~1
~ " r' + ^ ... ., '" v r " '" r' .. ^ '" .;.,,.., It" ^ "'"" ~.; ^ , ".. .. + ^ - ., .;.. ,.. 'Il' ' . ... +". L. ^ ,.. ''lIP Y
r "'.; - I,., _ P .. - I. .; - 3 _ I' i Ii R : II. i n J. HI t' iI R i" , r I .. I i ~ 1 it" .. 1 .. . r
3.
lake Ann Park contains Chanhassen's only supervised municipal
swimming area. As additional park land to the east is acquired,
the present beach area should be ex~anded. .
substitute =#= J .
Rlltrll. fniiliti8~ 1.9 R99"9~ ~;t"'.'" t"'? P""'~ T~o r~.y ~ay
~A the ftttttre, t61.3i8tl tl.! ">ldtlth.t;':'1I ,)f ~....1. r.:...;lil;~,,)
~R tORjwRttioR ~it~ i ~it~ ~O~tO to.uiRg t~o ~91t~ rrgr.
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5. Since the parks inception, the City has provided a high level
of maintenance for lake Ann Park. In order to maximize
existing and future park investments, this same level of
maintenance should be continued. In future years, this will
become increasingly difficult as new facilities are acquired
and developed throughout the community.
be constructed
capacity
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1. Fishing docks similar to those on Minneapolis lakes should
be constructed on all of the City's major lakes. An eastern
park expansion would be a logical place for such a structure
since its location would not conflict with swimming activities.
8. The wooded area in the western portion of the park site
should be developed and clearly marked with hiking trails.
Significant trees and other plant materials should be
.
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4. Restroc:m facili ties are needed wi thin the park. 1he Lake Ann Park Master
Plan calls for construction of a multi -purpose building on the north end
of the park near the beach area. This building will contain restroc:ms,
equipment storage, a concession stand and an enclosed shelter which can
be used for year-round community events.
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appropriately identified along the pathways. Benches in
scattered locations should also be installed in order to
permit prolonged observations of natural amenities.
9. Trees removed because of disease or damage should be replaced
in order to assure the continued aesthetic function of the
park.
.
10. Th~ bicycle paths to Lake Ann Park need improvement. The
pathway connecting the park with the downtown area should
be widened and landscaped. Within the park, a bicycle path
should be installed which leads to the beach area. Such
a path might be located in the eastern fringe of the wooded
area thereby providing additional amenities to bicyclists
without disturbing users of the trails in the wooded area.
11. The City should develop and implement a planting plan for
the existing tot lot area. Such a plan might emphasize the
installation of a windbreak and diversification of plant
colors, textures, and seasonal changes.
( (
12. Lake Ann Park is likely to remain as the City's largest park
facility. As such, it will continue to require substantial
amounts of machinery and manpower in order to continue its
present level of maintenance. .i9QaYt9 af t~i& &BMmilM8A'
.f maAps'.,'SV IAQ 9ttYipmeAt. I RBi: &tSVIgB,'i:Svlt fa&ilit~' ituultd
J~9 ~SAttry~tsd iR t~a pa,k. T~s City ~at ~9QQAtly tlkol
..~tiOR tQ 'eRlQ"e t~e exittiRg ~a'R IRg ts twpply tlHiR i
.f a & 11 i t~' .
.
boat access is inappropriately located.
ly, it blse . rea and althou h
does have the potential t essive
noise to th nSlon plans shou
a new boat access located east of the present
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10. The eastern portion of the park should include the installation of
additional active facilities in accordance with the approved master
plan. Iarrlscaping soould accanpany such improvements.
11. A picnic shelter should be constructed in the upper parking lot of the
t:oat access area.
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Chanhassen Pond
-.'n3tCfP\ HiN8 Park
Chanhassen Pond
1"11".- lI':i\'- Park while classified as a neighborhood park, .
provides a special opportunity for the surrounding residential
neighborhood. Most nei~~b~~~e~dp.>>~Jks are consumed primarily
by active facilities. ~ Park is different in that
it will never see a ball diamond, tennis court, hockey rink or
similar facility because i~ ~R}&ffifunction is that of a passively
oriented natural area. ~~rn ~,ll. pond is the frequent home
of ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. Because of natural terrain
conditions, its function and habitat are expected to remain the
same in the future.
1. A limited parking area should be constructed in a location as
close to Laredo Drive as possible. Such an improvement should
be adequately screened and landscaped.
2. Develop a master plan and planting plan for the area empha-
sizing native Minnesota plant materials.
natural environment
3. Provide 1"e~~i'. housing, roosting areas, and food for a
variety of species of wildlife.
4. Develop a trail network which permits observation from high
points as well as close to habitat areas. Such trails
should contain grades suitable for access by handicapped
and elderly individuals.
5. Seating areas should be provided for observation purposes.
6. The water quality of Western Hills pond should be continuously
monitored in order to continue its safe usage by wildlife.
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_ 7. T~e ~ity &~swl~ a&~wipe title iF el&emeAts SA 'he llA~
.WPP9YA~iR9 t~e Weet8PR Wille rVR~.
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C~~ 1~lrnter
. Park
.
The land area behind City Hall is at this time, probably the most
intensively used recreational facility in the City. Present
activities include hockey, baseball, and ice skating. The
recreation area west of the elementary school which is contiguous
to the City Hall site is also heavily used. .TL.ii "'fr"''''+ ...:" .,,'t
....&.&8" -oui~~un..lj'ti1JRlj fo" tlu uilulo1 Ji8l'tioR of tho I?l'UIUl't.r riRiIf
~tl Jil'i~8 &""'r+':^'" .:.. ~...". ..,.1.......1 a,.t;v;t;AC with mllnir;n~' IIC:P
J i i i .. .. '" .: r E) .. & + ^ ... ~ ... " ... .. ,. '" '" ... '" ..1 n n I, n .. "'.. I
Both of the hockey rinks on the site are in need of signif-
t maintenance. Consideration should be given to e ding
the e . ting rinks and replacing the temporary 1i g stand-
ards wit" manent ones. Ongoing maintenance these
facilities wi come even more important ce the City is
in the process of tructing a new C" all which over100ks.~
the hockey area. E:
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2.
Parking for the recreation re located behind
the City Hall building. lnce this cture also serves as
the City's main fir ation, a hazardous cess situation
exists because conflicts between the gener ub1ic,
volunteer f" en, and emergency vehicles. In or
this si ion, the City should consider developing an
and ing area off Kerber Drive and discontinuing the
sent one off Laredo Drive.
(.
3.
Planting and development plans for the entire area should be
drawn up with the cooperation of the school district.
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Chanhassen Estates Park
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Chanhassen Estates Park occupies 30 acres, the majority of which
r-55
exists as wetlands surrounding Rich Marsh Lake. Because of the
park's overall size and the amount of undisturbed wetland habitat,
it should be considered as an important part of the City's future .
recreation system. Chanhassen has the opportunity to develop a
nature oriented, passive park facility permitting public viewing
of wildlife in its natural surroundings. The installation of
boardwalks throughout the area could permit safe, convenient, and
environmentally unobtrusive movement throughout the park facility;
Chanhassen Estates Park is presently categorized as a neighborhood
park facility. Should the City develop it as outlined above, the
park's function would relate more to the entire community than
strictly to the surrounding neighborhood.
1. A master plan for the entire park area should be developed. I
Such a plan should address Chanhassen Estates continued function
as a neighborhood park as well as the development of the wet-
land area to serve the entire community.
2. The existing active area of the park should be improved.
Consideration should be given to adding additional play
equipment, clearly defining the parking area, and installing
trees and shrubs.
residential development occurs on the western and sout
si e e park, the City should investigate rel the
existing roa off of Erie Circle. ent access
requires traffic move rough t ~e Chanhassen
Estates neighborhood. development takes
place and additional use the pa reased traffic
could confli the residential neighborho. ocation
of th ss and parking to an area more directly re a
park could remedy this problem.
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4. Construct a path from the upland area of the park to the
open water of Rice Marsh Lake to permit the hand launching
of canoes and other water craft.
1\
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Marsh
Lake
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Lake Susan
J0I.~. .1.8668" b,allle Park
As part of the land dedication of 2the Chanhassen lakes Business
Par k, the C i t Y r! II "' lI~ r e c e i v e d i ~ a ere par eel . T his pie c e
represents only a portion of the 43 acre total but is probably the
most important for park development because of terrain and location-
al criteria. Its location on the northwest corner of lake Susan
makes it a likely future site for both active facilities and a
possible boat access.serving community wide programs and interests.
. hin the area comprising the Chanhassen lakes park
City install both wells and a ment
facility. The inte. facilities into
the park area should red. planning these
faciliti ssibility of combinln shelter with
house building should be considered.
. l~ke Susan .
The deslgn of the C~lR lrrgq l.~9S Park should represent the
specific needs of the surrounding neighborhood. Since the
surrounding neighborhood includes both residential and indus-
trial uses, this park is likely to contain facilities that
vary somewhat from typical neighborhood parks.
lake Susa~
An 0 v era 11 mas t e r p 1 a n s h 0 u 1 d bed eve lop e d for tt ~u A ~ :it t Ii A 1 k 9 Ii
Park. Such a plan should consider the inclusion of a baseballl archery
softball field, picnic area, parking, a boat access, VITA course~
and jogging track. Facilities should be tailored to the needs
of the "noon hour athletes" likely to be employed in the indus-
trial park.
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Chanhassen Lakes Park
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Bandimere Heights Park
e
. hts Park is located in the
of Chanhassen
eve opment is anticlpa
substitute # 15
no addi-
r
r-57
the park is recomm
this plan in
needs in the Bandimere are
.
Ba dimer Hei
Bluff Creek Park
/
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Bluff Creek Park exists as a steep drainageway and will never
accommodate developed recreational facilities.. Its main value is
as a natural drainage course and possible pedestrian trail link. .
The only recommendation for this park is that the debris which has
been deposited in the upper reaches of the drainageway be removed.
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add -#16
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~ontains a tot lot and
Bandimere Heights park is located in the extreme southern portion of
Chanhassen's Urban Service Area. At the present time, the park is used for
soccer games. In the future, it is recanmended that a master plan be prepared
for the p:trk. Off street parking soould be included in the master plan.
116
South Lotus Lake Park.
South Lotus Lake Park is a 5 acre facility serving both community and
neigttx:>rh::>od needs. Existing facilities include a boat access, parking and
picnic areas. Future facilities identified in the park's master plan include
a ball dialTOnd, tennis courts, a totlot and additional landscaping.
Chanhassen Hills Park.
Chanhassen Hills Park, which was acquired in 1986, is presently undeveloped.
A master plan for the facility should be prepared identifying appropriate
uses.
add #K
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0Jrry Fams Park
Curry Farms Park was acquired in 1987. The developers site plan which
included the p:trk area identified off street parking, a softball field and
tennis courts for future construction. The City soould review the site plan
and, if appropriate, adopt it as a master plan for future development on the
site.
'!'rea tment Plant Site
Property on the south end of Chanhassen Estates is used as a small play area
containing a swing set and slide. This site, which formerly was part of the
Chanhassen sewage treatment plant, is not scheduled for future expansion.
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Regional Facilities
The Minnewashta Regional Park, Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and
the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Recreation Area comprise
the three major regional facilities that exist within the City of
Chanhassen. In the case of each of these facilities, the City
has varying degrees of control in planning, operation, and maint-
enance. Specific details. pertaining to each of these facilities
are found in the following discussions.
Minnewashta Regional Park
Minnewashta Regional Park is the only Metropolitan facility
spe . ically identified in the City's Systems Statement.
sition' currently completed and development of limited
is anticip d during the summer or fall of 1980.
to review proposed
with input into the
Minnewashta onal Park's location in Chanhassen' removed
from the oping portion of the community. Vacant nds
surrou ng the park are not likely to have sewer servic ntil
af 1990. Any future assessments for city services will
und to the stated terms of the conditional use permit.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Minnesota landscape Arboretum which is owned and operated by
the University of Minnesota is a recreational resource not only
to Chanhassen but to the upper midwest as well. Numerous
Arboretum visitors come from throughout the State, Metro ~rea, as
well as adjoining states in order to observe the numerous species
of plant materials. As such, the Arboretum is an outstanding
addition to the recreational resources available to Chanhassen
residents.
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is located in an area which
puts it in much the same category of the Minnewashta Regional
Park. Dev~AARment in the surrounding area is not likely to occur
until afte~~ and should have no tangible effect on the facility
itself. The City of Chanhassen will continue to provide sewer
service to the site with the Arboretum supplying its own water,
maintenance of streets, etc.
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Minnewashta Regional Park lies wholly within the City of Chanhassen. Existing
facili ties include a boat access, parking, picnic areas and trails. The
Raster plan for the park calls for additional facilities.
In general, Minnewashta Regional Park does not duplicate facilities found in
Olanhassen city parks. 1herefore, the facility is canplimentary to existing
municipal facilities providing a broad base of recreational opportunities for
Chanhassen residents.
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Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Recreation Area
The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Area is located along the
Minnesota River in the extreme southern portion of Chanhassen.
Ultimate development plans for this area call for two facilities;
a recreation area within which boating, fishing, hiking, and
possibly snowmobiling would be permitted and a wildlife manage-
ment area devoted exclusively to protecting wildlife and its
habitat.
Since the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Recreation Area is
located so far away from the existing developed portion of the
community, additional urban development is not likely to occur
until after the year 2000. Therefore, support services such as
food, gasoline, etc. will have to be supplied by existing business-
es rather than from new commercial development.
,
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~ Proposed New Parks .
o sev.en h b . d . f" d d '" d
.... Within Chanhassen,~ areas ave een 1 ent1 1e as nee 1ng 1mprove
~ access to park lands. Each of these areas which are noted on the
~ accompanying map, have been found to be deficient in park space
o because of the lack of available facilities within a one-half mile
~rea.~ Because of this, future community planning efforts should
concentrate on acquiring appropriate parcels for park development
within each of these zones.
General guidelines for each of these areas are as follows:
Zone 1
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The first area lies east of Lotus Lake along Highway 101, bounded
on the north by the Colonial Grove Subdivision. A significant
portion of this zone consists of larger parcels which are likely
to be subdivided in the future. ^~~jJ.,jil,~ 1!a tl..:.. 19:':) 1.':'''_:'';'
JUt. I:'. 1C[ uni'l ~I "In"l.:, Illil" Projections indicate that future
development could add as many as 225-350 additional housing units.
Zone 1 contains a number of constraints to the provision of convenient
park sites. Lotus Lake and Highway 101 form barriers which inhibit
pedestrian movement in either a westerly or eas.ter1y direction. .
Other factors to consider are the private facilities within the
zone which supply recreational opportunities. e.11"il1 ~F&rl 'I-tiins
) , Fir 1 tot I " " i Ii i R ~ h 1 i . ~ i F 81 ~. h i 8 h 8 e 1 .!!I Ii j a e e R 11 h 6 tj 0 i R! tl~ its
.R~ thQ ~F'~&i9~ t&~th l.t~i bah. F.li~IRtiI1 ~..!10,m8Rt IIRtai.s
.imilir flliliti!l. Excluding these land areas, a relatively small
number of potential users remain in Zone 1.
Based upon this information, it will not be cost effective for
Chanhassen to develop a neighborhood park in Zone 1 within the
next 10 year period. Efforts should be directed toward supplying
this area with convenient access to other existing park sites.
This could be accomplished through the construction of trails and
pathways.
Zone 2
add -#l
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Zone 2 which lies south of Highway 5 is large~ undeveloped at
the present time. Within this area, however, significant develop-
ment propo~als are now under review. As part of these projects,
park sites have been proposed which should effectively serve the
residents living west of 101. Thl iFI. ~~~~: ::6: :: ~:~ ~~~l
~~~ ~~~~ jd~~'fit9 pJFIt fiuilitie!l Ie 1 r :~i "~:~'Z ...~nt.
.q~'J-g+g"r. "'''t',rg 110"11&'''11"' '11'11111 i~ltj11i 061. '.~ 't" ".(.te
f;a ... If ~ :a ,.. ; , ; + .; ,C: .
Within the eastern section of Zone 2, neighborhood park facilities
will be needed. Active facilities such as ba11fie1ds, tennis
.
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Tra Us are extremely important to this zone in order to pt'ovide residents with
connections to Chanhassen's major parks and recreational opportunities in Eden
Prairie.
r-61
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c7. ~~;" ...'>1~. ..., i 1\.-' ~ iO' p' / i/~...j -,..["[\
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CITY OF I. :
CHANHASSEN: . ):
MINNESOTA . ! '~~_'!' .
IMJ Existing Parks and Service Area h ~ E~...j[l:':,)Y 1 ! ~
.~ f-J. . ,...) .1'" r7~ ..
W " J ~. .,1, .
Park Deficiency Areas -.... ! ~ ~ L' ~
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update IV!' '~.I.i~ ~ 'r!~iW' I ~
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r-62
courts, and open field areas should be constructed. Chanhassen
Estates Park, if expanded as this plan recommends, should ade-
quately serve the passive recreational needs of the surrounding
residents. Additionally, trails and pathways traversing Zone 2
should link the area to other Chanhassen park facilities.
l
Zone 3
The area identified on the map as Zone 3 is presently largely
undeveloped. According to the land Use section of this plan, this
area is not likely to be sewered by sanitary sewer until after
2,OOcqlHHL As a result, Zone 3 should not be considered as apriority
in the future provision of parks until additional development occurs, lake
Ann Park will accomodate the recreational needs of this zone.
Future park plans call for the construction of a trail surrounding
lake Ann. The construction of such a trail could effectively link
the eastern ha1fof thearea to lake Ann Park. The western half
of Zone 3 which lies between Highways 41 and 117 may require a
separate neighborhood park. The land around lake Harrison would
be a possible site for such a facility.
Zone 4
Zone 4, which is bisected by lake lucy Road, c~ntains scattered
residential development, the majority of which occupies larger
land parcels. Because of this, existing demand for recreational
facilities is minimal.
The northern section of Zone 4 is presently serviced by sanitary
sewer. In the southern portion, sewer service is not imminent
and will not be available prior to 1990. TI,t:,t:ru't:, 1........
~: ~ : ~ ~ ~:" ~ ~ ~: ~: ~ Q J (j Ii i ! R iil t 9 IU I' k d Q 'Hi 'I {i pm 9 b i ~ t ~ Q t 9 y t hie r n
ICnrt1sA {if IURa i. su statute #M
rthern
near future.
number of deferred
of this, increased
to take place
pa rce 1
area, additional development could occur in the
nhassen City Council recentl
sewe ents i .
develo subdivision is likely
1S occur, the City s .ve to obtain
for a future neighborhood park.
Zone 5
The vast majority of land within Zone 5 is held in public or semi-
public ownership. The holdings of Camp Tonna Doona, the Minnesota
Landscape Aboretum, and Minnewashta Regional Park consume 430 of
the 786 acres within this deficient zone. Additionally, the area
is not likely to receive sanitary sewer service until after'100Q~,OOO
Because of these factors, no additional major municipal recreational
development is recommended within the next ten years. Prior to
that time, however, Zone 5 may contain trails as a part of the
City's overall trail network.
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curry Farms Park has recently been acquired in the northern portion of Zone 4.
Development of facilities in this area will adequately meet the recreation
demarrl through the year 2000.
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Zone 6
Residential areas within Zone 6 are effectively cut off from existing
parks by major roadways on the north and south, Lake Minnewashta
on the east and by the Chanhassen city limits to the west. ~lith;R
tl.:J .:.a.Lfi, IJ'( I.~,",J:II~ wlI:L~ '-^;Jl Ulld n;bj, ~~"~, ;)~IY;'-~ QVQ;luble,
it i& Butimate€4 that aAsther g;& 8E;Q ~Ait3 alt pOJJihlt i....he
~~t~~. At the present time, there are no existing public park
facilities of any type within the area.
In reviewing the needs of Zone 6, the most significant deficiency
is the lack of neighborhood park facilities. Tennis courts, ball
diamonds, open areas and picnic grounds are non-existent. There-
fore, future acquisitions should accommodate such activities.
Regarding possible locations for future park sites, ~..8 81 caB !taA~
~..+ lOi,;:tHH: R~HQrt. 1"ri+"'1'l nn~+h n~ 1'h.,. D.,.r4 r.,.I'l~~ Dn;n1' n"';g~_
e8d'lss", '.:o~l" hI! IF! I!llulloFli liiiillf111 iI'll f;ii.:,'! ~11111.:,!t!.I1
r h n I I 1,4 i" ~ i . i m i i .. i i 1 i ~ 1 i i n t L. - .r .. .. Y . An f t L. -. a 1 t ern a t i v e w 0 u 1 d
bet 0 d eve lop a sit ear 0 u n d La k eSt. Joe. / yo yo t:> g ~ ~ r4 1 .,. ~" n ~ to. h 'hi h
j ; l' t:> ; c: .,. \I .,. I"l + II ~ 1 ')' ~ (' q II .; ~.,. I'l .; + ; ~ .; '" p n ". + '" '" + + ~ ... + + ~ ^ r '0' 1 F i · i Ii'
..~^r"-+.r I"'n"'+i'iF1 r"~~~r;,:,pt 'L'r~'. "pl~-~ H'QIl ti iillmm.i.... .he
. 1j t i .. n ~ ~ \? [j ~ i t [ f? " 0 .. i r 1I r l~' l1<Ill '" t ~ ':' 0 e d .
As future residential infill occurs. the city .should be prepared
through dedication and/or purchase, to acquire an appropriate parcel
of land. add #N
Lake Access.
Add #18
Chanhassen has a longstanding goal of providing a public access
on each lake within the city. The community contains all or,part
of ten lakes which are legally public waters and, as such, should
be accessible. Because it is impossible for everyone to live on
a lake, the establishment of public accesses is imperative if the
entire community is to enjoy the amenities associated with lakes.
The following examination of each of Chanhassen's lakes discusses
existing accesses as well as possible future additions. As the
city acquires land and access points in the future, close coordi-
nation should occur between the Lake Study Committee, Park and
Recreation Commission, City Council, and local lakeshore owners
to assure that adequate facilities are installed which minimize
environmental intrusions and maximize the rights of all concerned.
'nnewashta: Lake Minnewashta, which is Chanhassen's t
a ' ately owned access at Leaches inade-
quate public access to it. 1n9 public access
consists of a street ri h - inadequate because of
a lack of park' aneuvering room. development
and ership in the area, the improvement of t
feasible in the near futurs'ubstitute #19
IN
Prior to that time, efforts should be focused on implementing the Chanhassen
Trail plan in order to provide Zone 6 residents with safe, convenient access
to existing park facilities.
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Zooe 7
Chanhassen's General Rural Use Area comprises Zone 7. Within this area, this
plan has identified a need for a new camtlD'lity p:lrk site of at least 15 acres.
A new community park site could serve two purposes. First, construction of
new ball diamonds could relieve some of the existing scheduling conflicts at
Lake Ann Park and secondly, acquisition of land now will ensure that adequate
carmlD'lity park land is available after 2000.
119
The pUblic access needs of Lake Minnewashta are adequately served by the
regional park.
'20
Public access to Lake Ann is available at Lake Ann Park.
121
South Lotus Lake Park contains a launching facility that provides pUblic
access to Lotus Lake.
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regional park on the ea
the development 0
which was ed to pri-
It i cipated that the
Lake St. Joe: Lake St. Joe is a small body of water which is
suitable primarily for fishing and passive uses. The DNR maintains
a permative access on the east side of the lake which is expected
to be maintained in its present state.
Lake Lucy: Lake Lucy is inherently unsuitable for power boat
usage because of its depth, shape, and associated aquatic vegeta-
tion. The City maintains parkland at Greenwood Shores which is
projected to be linked to Lake Ann Park by a lineal green belt.
The land around Lake Lucy is also depicted as park and open space
usage in the land use plan with the exception of the Greenwood
Shores residential area.
The City should maintain Lake Lucy as a natural .environment lake
suitable for passive uses and may want to consider the prohibition
of motors as has been enacted on Lake Ann. Future development
should provide a pathway for the hand-launching of non-motorized
wa te rc ra ft.
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nn: The City has an existing boat access at Lake Ann Park . ~
which pe ilered launching of non-motorized watercraft. -JC)
In 1980, the City a r LAWCON funds to relo 1ng.~N
access to the e a s tan d top r 0 par kin g fa c i 1 i - ~ ~
ties. When this projec . a ill have a boat ..ol1'
access whi uately serve lake users but con-
the park nor the surrounding neighborhood uses. ~
Christmas Lake: Christmas Lake is multi-jurisdictional lying
in Shorewood and Chanhassen which are located in Hennepin and
Carver Counties, respectively. The Chanhassen portion of Christmas
Lake is totally developed and shows little promise for the instal-
lation of a public access. The DNR" presently _""t. ~"i..! tll has
_1"<1";'" an access in Shorewood. 11+"'''''0''' r"'::ar,,,,,.co..on ...,... n" j""';t"_
J~iitii~ iR thia IFI.. .hl tit~ ~I.a au".,t th. Ifflr'l If "hi
JI!lrln~ containing horsepower limitations over the next 7 years.
Q)
lotus Lake is one of the most visible lakes i ~
location near the 'downto espite .a~
a 1C access on the
a in the Carver Beach ..o.~~
neighbor access is largely unsuite l1'
of maneuvering restrictions and a total
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her complicating the issue is the fact that in order to r .
the s a user has to negotiate a substantial portion e
Carver Be neighborhood which contains streets as as 20
feet.
The
s viewpoint that the access should ocated on
parkland in order to maintain maximum contr f the
Regardless of which site is ultimately chosen, 's
to provide an approved public access on Lotus Lake.
Rice Marsh Lake: Rice Marsh Lake is another water body which is
suited for passive uses. Chanhassen Estates Park lies on the northern
shore of the lake and development plans call for the construction
of a pathway to the open water to accommodate the hand-launching
of canoes.
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Lake Riley: Lake Riley, like Christmas Lake, is multi-jurisdictional
lying in both Chanhassen and Eden Prairie. The Chanhassen side
of the lake is limited by the delineation of the. MUSA line. Eden
Prairie maintains a public access on the eastern side of Lake Riley .
permitting the launching of boats by both residents and non-residents.
Chanhassen should work with Eden Prairie through the Chanhassen
Park and Recreation Commission 81 i Lilli (",ui~ tln...i",",u. to ensure
that the Eden Prairie access is maintained and operated in a manner
which serves both residents and lake shore owners from both com-
munities.
Because of increased energy costs, community growth, and other
factors, Chanhassen lakes can expect -to see gr~ater usage in the
future. ....Chanhassen tllll (",ui~ flmmitt--"should monitor each
of the city's primary lakes in order to suggest appropriate re-
strictions or control measures in order to provide all residents
with adequate opportunities for lake enjoyment.
A trail odate several transportat' s.
ing, jogging, roller skat" cling, cr try skiing,
snowmobiling, and horseback riding uent uses of such lineal
corridors. The unrestricte all 0 modes within a
corridor presents a eptable and potential rous situa-
tion. Ther , is necessary to examine each of thes s
to ne which are feasible and compatible uses within an u
ea.
Walk-
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omit
CITY OF ASSEN
CHANH
MINNESOTA
Walkways/Bik~ P
Regional Trail
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omit
Ie
CITY OF
CHANHASSEN
MINNESOTA
Snowmobile Trails
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ere are two primary focuses of trailways: First, they serve
as recreational facilities and, secondly, they comprise a serio
_ for of transportation. Trailways typically provide connectio
betw n residential areas, parks, open space areas, commercia
uses, nd industries. As such, they serve both the casual er
as wel as those individuals who depend upon non-motorized ravel.
Within t~
into two g
Specific co
context of this plan, trailways will be broke down
eral categories: Walkways and special use orridors.
ents on each of these are offered below.
Walkways: Wa ways are intended for use by pedestrO ns. They
can be used fo functional purposes such as trips 0 school,
the store, or ev n work or for recreational u such as a
walk through a pa Common surfacing material are asphalt or
wood chips with st s occurring at steep grade.
system has been desi ed to connect major
tional areas, park, and employment
the travel port on of roadways is
ns. As futur residential developments
ss to major rail corridors should
The Chanhassen walkwa
land uses such as recr
centers. Separation fr
essential for safety rea
are proposed, adequate ac
be provided.
Bikeways: In recent years, b
.as both serious and recreation
In order to protect riders from
paths have been constructed in
have increased in popularity
urces of transportation.
torized vehicles, bicycle
communities.
In Chanhassen, the proposed lignment is the same as
the walkway alignment. Wit rridor, separate facilities
should be constructed wher. feasible. Bicycle paths should
be at least 8 feet wide d be paved Wl h a suitable hard surface.
Such paths can also acc modate activiti such as roller skating
and cross country skii 9 in the winter.
Snowmobile Trails: ecause of the signific amount of vacant
and rural land wit n Chanhassen, snowmobili can be accommodated
without interfere e with urban residential ne hborhoods. As
the community co inues to grow and additional creational
areas are esta ished, suitable snowmobile trail will become
harder to fi . It is realistic to assume that some point
in the futur when the community becomes largely u an, snow-
mobiling wi be confined to specific park areas. til that
time occur. , the Park and Recreation Commission shoul continue
to work th the local snowmobile clubs to establish a ropriate
routes.
ian Trails: As a part of a future major community
anhassen Park and Recreation Commission should consid
establishment of equestrian trails and possibly a rental
boarding facility. Should any of the existing riding stab
n t~e.city becomp avai 'able. consideration should be given to
acqulrlng them for park purposes.
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Tra i 1 s: As a
System prop he
is to be developed co
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