8.1. SR 12-01-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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NATURAL AREAS Elk River is blessed with an extraordinary natural environment, much of which is publicly accessible as parkland. The City maintains numerous natural areas as parkland in both the northern and southern portions of Elk River. These areas provide environmental benefits such as habitat protection and water quality improvement, and are also available for passive public uses such as hiking, birdwatching, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. Natural resource parks are assets that provide the City with the type of outdoor character that the City promotes through its "Powered by Nature" brand. RIVER/WATER ACCESS Although Elk River is at the confluence of the Elk and Mississippi Rivers, there are relatively few public access points to the rivers. Creating better connections to the rivers is an important task for the City. Needs and issues related to river access include: Lack of public connectivity along the rivers Right of Way and roadway design constraints that complicate development of a downtown riverfront trail Uncertainty about the long -term future of Babcock Park and the boat launch when Highway 10 is reconstructed Potential for more river -based recreation Perceived and real water quality issues at Lake Orono PROGRAMS The City of Elk River offers a diverse range of programs to its residents, and it is apparent that great care is taken to provide programs that appeal to people of all ages. Programs are conducted at city parks as well as at Lion's Center, the YMCA, the Senior Activity Center, and Elk River schools. The Elk River Senior Activity Center has made its home in the former library since 2008. The building works well for its new function but additional space may be required in the future as demand increases. The center is open weekdays during typical business hours and hosts a fitness center, classes, computers, pool tables, small and medium gatherings rooms, and a popular coffee shop. The building needs upgrades, however, to continue as a successful senior activity center. The restrooms are not ADA accessible, the heating system needs updating, and the parking lot needs expansion and safety enhancement to improve navigation. The Lions Park Center, which is located at Lion John Weicht Park, is heavily utilized by the community but is in need of significant upgrades or replacement because many of the building's components have reached or are reaching the end of their functional life span. There is a desire for larger and more flexible space that could support recreation programming as well as events, banquets, and meetings. Draft 11.25.1 4 Chapter 3: The System Today 24 Q 0 O