Fall 2020 Hometown Messenger

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

Share your feedback on Safe Routes to School

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

This school year, eight Shakopee Public Schools will be working with local, county and state staff to create a Safe Routes to School Plan. The plan will make recommendations for program and street improvements with the goal of increasing the number of students and families walking and biking to and from school. While this school year will look different, the planning process will be using creative ways to engage school and community members to make walking and biking in the community more comfortable and convenient for all students. Share your experiences about walking and biking in Shakopee on the interactive map at mnsaferoutesplanning.org/map . You

In coordination with a citywide trails signage and wayfinding project, work is underway for the rebranding of Vierling Greenway, formerly known as the Drainage Way Trail. The trail, which runs along the Upper Valley Drainage Way, will be redesigned for comfort, safety and improved vegetation. Plans for these improvements are consistent with plans in the Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan. IMPROVEMENTS MAY INCLUDE: • Directional and wayfinding signage • Naturalized planting to support wildlife • Improved crossings throughout the corridor • Amenities such as benches, garbage cans and fitness or play equipment • Creation of a trailhead near Fire Station 2 TIMELINE: A multi-year project, improvements should begin in 2021 and continue through 2025. STATUS: City staff are working with consultants on the concept plan with community engagement planned for fall 2020. COST: The project is estimated at $900,000 over the next three years and will be funded from the city's Park Development Fund. MORE INFO: www.ShakopeeMN.gov/ parkprojects Vierling Greenway

can also contact Senior Planner PeggySue Imihy at pimihy@ShakopeeMN.gov. Funding for the planning process is provided by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Learn more about Safe Routes to School at mnsaferoutestoschool.com.

Share your feedback on Scenic Heights Park Residents living near Scenic Heights Park, 1195 Ruby Lane, are encouraged to share their ideas for the future of the park through an online survey. The survey is available in English and Spanish on the city website. Visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/parkprojects or contact Senior Planner PeggySue Imihy at pimihy@ShakopeeMN.gov to learn more.

Virtual open house for Jennifer Lane Park is Sept. 17 In July, residents near Timber Trails Park and the future park on Jennifer Lane joined city staff for a family activity night to help plan improvements for these two parks. Families participated in several park planning activities, such as designing their ideal park, and provided direction on priorities for both parks. Two concept plans for the proposed park will be available for review during a virtual open house at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17. Residents can view the plans and provide feedback during the meeting. Visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/parkprojects for more information on how to join the virtual meeting.

Neighbors participated in family activities at a July 16 open house to share ideas park planning for the future Jennifer Lane Park and redesigned Timber Trails Park.

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