7.1 PRSR 02-11-2009 - Laserfiche WebLink

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REQUEST FOR ACTION To Item Number Parks and Recreation Commission 7.1. Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Action/Discussion Items February 11, 2009 Bill Maertz, Parks and Recreation Director Item Description Reviewed by Woodland Trails Park Winter Trail Usage Reviewed by Action Requested Adjustment to Woodland Trails Park Winter Trail Use Policies Background/Discussion Woodland Trails Park comprises nearly 400 acres and includes a well developed system of trails that are heavily used year around. Both in the summer and winter, the ski and walking trails are maintained by the same volunteer group that has been instrumental in their development. Combined with their year round trail maintenance, those volunteers save the City in excess of a full time position. As the trails were developed for winter use a decision was made to accommodate multiple uses on the same trail system. As winter park use increased by both skiers and walkers, some conflicts developed between the two uses. In an effort to resolve those conflicts, a separate trail groomed for winter walking and snowshoeing was developed. That trail is in its 4`'' season and approximately 90% ofnon-skiers use that trail. While there have been some conflicts in recent years the walking trail has served to nununize them. As year round and especially winter park use increases, there have again been concerns raised by both skiers and walkers regarding winter trail use at Woodland Trails Park. With the increased use, staff is recommending a review and change in the policy regarding winter trail use at Woodland Trails Park. Concerns include: Many walkers have dogs. There have been instances where the dog has crossed to the opposite side of the trail as the owner, resulting in a skier being tripped by the leash. 2. Skiers travel at speed up to 45km per hour on some of the downhill trails sections raising the concern of a skier/walker collision. 3. Youth have been sliding down the steepest hills on the trails creating a hazard for both themselves and skiers. S:\P.9RIi.4 & RECREATION\U2 11 O9 PRC Packet\Authorization to Adjust Woodland Hills Winter Trail Use.doc