02-11-2009 PR MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Park & Recreation Commission Minutes Page °~ February 11, 2009 • walking and snowshoeing was developed. That trail is in its 4~' season and approximately 90% of non-skiers us that trail. While there have been some conflicts in recent years. the walking trail has served to minimise them. Mr. Maertz stated the following concerns. First, many walkers have dogs; instances have occurred where the dog has crossed to the opposite side of the trail as the owner, resulting in a skier being tripped by the leash. Second, skiers travel at speeds up to 45km per hour on some of the downhill trails sections raising the concern of a skier/walker collision. Third, youth have been sliding down the steepest hills on the trails creating a hazard for both themselves and skiers. Lastly, walking on groomed snow disturbs and compacts the groomed surface. This increases grooming demands and in extreme circumstances such as foot traffic on trails softened by warm temps, the foot prints can later freeze creating a trip hazard for skiers and an unpleasant surface for walkers. Mx. Maertz shared staff recommendations. First, the east edge of the Great Northern Trail, for its entire length from County Road 1, north to County Road 33, be designated as "Winter Walking Trail". The grade along with the designated route from the grade to the parking lot will continue to be shared by skiers. This establishes a critical North/South link for walkers. Second, the groomed walking trail be extended to the east utilizing the corridor between Ridgewood and Lafayette Woods to at least the point where the access trail from Tipton intersects this • corridor. The trail portion along the Ridgewood ski hill will be reviewed by staff because of its steep grade. Third, starting in the 2009-2010 winter season, skiing will only be allowed on designated ski trails in Woodland Trails Park when "snow covered". Lastly, trails east of the grade should remain closed to walking when snow covered for the remainder of this season. Elk River resident, Hal Austvold; 18211 Hudson St. Elk River. Questioned how much conflict there can be on the trail system if only 10% are interacting. Mr. Maertz stated that it will only take one accident to cause serious injury to someone, researched other local park trail policies and found that it is standard practice in parks to not co-mingle walkers and skiers. Mr. Austvold shared his concern of walkers being pushed off to the wayside to allow skiers to use the trails only a few months a year. Mr. Maertz stated that there are 4 miles of walking trails within Woodland Trails along with many other walking trails in parks in the City. Rogers resident, Susie Newman; 13012 Oakwood Dr, Rogers. Shared that Woodland Trails is a premiere trail system in the state of MN. It is very unique in setting and technicality. Concerned for walkers safety, has had encounters with walkers with dogs. If a newer skier were to have the same encounter it would be a • higher chance of an accident happening due to their inexperience.