City Council Meeting Date: November 4, 2024
To: Park and Recreation Advisory Board
From: Charlie Fredericks, Streets and Parks Manager
Title
Consider Resolution Approving the Sechler Park Long-Range Plan.
Body
Action Requested:
Consider approving a resolution for the Sechler Park Long-Range Plan.
Summary Report:
The Northfield Park and Recreation Advisory Board will receive a presentation from Bolton & Menk and Bruce Jacobson on the final Sechler Park Long-Range Plan, detailing proposed enhancements and the community-driven vision for this important park.
This initiative aligns with the city's Strategic Plan and Riverfront Action Plan, aiming to enhance economic vitality by making Sechler Park more accessible and inviting to both residents and visitors. The long-range plan establishes a roadmap for phased improvements, enhancing the park's appeal, usability, and integration with other nearby riverfront parks-such as Riverside Lions Park, Northfield Area Veterans Memorial Park, Babcock Park, and Ames Park-all of which contribute to the city's broader riverfront revitalization goals.
Bolton & Menk and Bruce Jacobson Landscape Architect LLC have worked closely with city staff and various community stakeholders to develop this long-range plan. Community feedback was collected through multiple channels, including an online survey (with 152 responses), an interactive map with public comments, three pop-up tabling events, and meetings with user groups like Northfield Youth Baseball Association, Age-Friendly Northfield, and Fastpitch Softball representatives. Based on this input, two concept plans were developed, refined with further feedback, and consolidated into the final plan.
Council reviewed the concept plans on October 15, 2024, expressing a preference for Concept 1. Feedback emphasized improved accessibility via pedestrian bridges, enhanced connectivity with existing trails, and safety enhancements across the park-ranging from protective netting nea...
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