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Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Packet 07-25-2019Park & Recreation Commission Agenda: 07/25/2019 AGENDA REGULAR PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING July 25, 2019 — 8 A.M Monticello Public Works Office "To enhance communitypride through developing and maintaining city parks with a high standard of quality." 1. Call to Order. 2. Approve Minutes of Regular Parks Commission Meeting from May 23, 2019. 3. Approve Minutes of Special Parks Commission Meeting from June 27, 2019. 4. Consideration of adding to or removing items from the agenda. 5. Citizen's requests and comments. 6. MontiArts Update. (SS) 7. MCC Update. (AM/SC) 8. Safe Routes to School Plan. (AS) 9. Ellison Park Log Shelter Replacement. (TP) 10. Bertram Athletic Park Construction Update. (TP) 11. General Park Updates. a. Riverside Cemetery Columbarium. 12. Discussion of added items. 13. Next regular meeting scheduled for September 28, 2019. 14. Adjourn. 1 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES I MAY 23, 2019 MINUTES PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING THURSDAY MAY 23, 2019 - 9:15 A.M. "To enhance communitypride through developing and maintaining City parks with a high standard of quality. " Members Present: Lynn Anderson, Bill Fair, Jack Gregor, Nancy McCaffrey, Brian Stoll, Karen Vetsch Members Absent: Anna Bohanon, Jack Gregor Staff Present: Sara Cahill, Beth Green, Ann Mosack, Tom Pawelk, Angela Schumann 1. Call to Order. Chair Brian Stoll called the meeting to order at 9:15 a.m. and declared a quorum. 2. Approve Minutes of Regular Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting from March 28, 2019. LYNN ANDERSON MOVED TO APPROVE THE MARCH 28, 2019 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES. MOTION SECONDED BY KAREN VETSCH. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, 5-0. 3. Consideration of adding to or removing items from the agenda. Remove Items: • Remove Item 9 Add Items: • Walk & Roll • Ellison House • Skate Park • Pickleball Courts 4. Citizens requests and comments. Nancy McCaffrey said the East Bridge Gardeners would like to extend a big thank you city parks staff for their assistance at East Bridge and she noted that all the gardens are now planted. The gardeners are also very appreciative of the council support. Page 1 of 4 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES I MAY 23, 2019 5. MontiArts Update. Sue Seeger was unable to attend the meeting so Tom Pawelk shared her emailed update with the group. 6. MCC Update. Ann Mosack shared the MCC Update for May, and Sara Cahill shared the programming update (see attached). Mosack also noted that an RFP has gone out for the design of the new water slide. The old water slide is the original slide (nearly 20 years old) so is due for replacement. U.S. Aquatics is the consultant on the project. City Council approved moving forward with WSB to create a concept design for the outside old skate park at the MCC. 7. Consideration to review for recommendation park dedication requirements for the preliminary plat of Spirit Hills South. Angela Schumann said the Parks & Rec Commission is asked to consider a formal recommendation related to park dedication requirements for a proposed 48 -unit residential plat, Spirit Hills South. This plat is the second phase of a previously approved development in 2003. However, this phase of the development has since lapsed. To develop the project, the developer has submitted a new application. The area to be platted is approximately 24.88 acres. Under state statute, with platting or replatting the city has the option of either requiring a land dedication for park, or the city can collect park dedication fees referred to as "cash in lieu". The city ordinance requires 11% of the land or cash in lieu equivalent. The previous plan for the Spirit Hills Development did not include the dedication of land for park. Similarly, the current plan does not propose a park but does propose two outlots to be dedicated to the city for pathway purposes, approximately 0.26 acres in total. The Parks Superintendent has provided comment on the location and alignment of the outlots and pathways as park of the plat review. The total dedication based on 11 % is 2.74 acres. The difference between the required and provided land dedication would be required to be paid as cash to meet the city's dedication requirements. The developer's representative said they are willing to construct the 10' paved pathways on both Outlots A & B. Schumann said the construction costs could be credited against the remaining cash dedication requirement. City staff supports working with the developer on the final design and credit would be subject to the City Engineer's recommendation. Page 2 of 4 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES I MAY 23, 2019 JULIE JELEN MOVED TO APPROVE A RECOMMENDATION FOR LAND PARK DEDICATION AT SPIRIT HILLS FOR OUTLOTS A & B, WITH THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE REQUIRED AND PROVIDED LAND DEDICATION TO BE PAID AS CASH OR CREDIT FOR CONSTRUCTION COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH PATHWAY CONSTRUCTION ON OUTLOTS A & B AND ALONG FENNING AVENUE AS RECOMMENDED BY THE CITY ENGINEER. MOTION SECONDED BY NANCY MCCAFFREY. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, 5-0. 8. Bertram Athletic Park Construction Update. Tom Pawelk said New Look Contracting is on schedule and they have been very good to work with. There have been a few change orders on the project. Pawelk shared a drone video of the construction submitted by councilman Bill Fair. There will be an irrigation pre -con next Wednesday. 9. MontiView Park ADA Accessibility Discussion. Item removed from agenda. 10. Tabled items from last meeting. a. Par West Disc Golf. Tom Pawelk said Wright County is planning to put in a disc golf course at Montissippi Park. He sent a letter to the Wright County Parks Board in support of the county's project. Sometime in July staff will remove all existing frisbee golf poles at Par West and they will be moved to Montissippi where county staff is planning to construct an 18 -hole disc golf course. This area is in the power line corridor so there will be a prairie restoration there with meandering trails and Xcel Energy will help with financial support of that. b. Meeting Time Change: Propose meeting time change to 8:00. BRIAN STOLL MOVED TO CHANGE THE REGULAR MEETING TIME TO 8 A.M. MOTION SECONDED BY KAREN VETSCH. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, 5-0. 11. General Park Updates. a. Trail Maintenance: The Crack Sealing/Fog Sealing Project will be brought to City Council on May 28th, with a recommendation to approve a contract with MP Asphalt Maintenance based upon their low quote of $22,576.28 (See attached map for areas included in the maintenance). Page 3 of 4 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES I MAY 23, 2019 b. Riverside Cemetery Columbarium: In June, staff will work on the concrete foundation for the columbarium. The delivery and installation of the columbarium is expected at the end of July. After installation, staff will begin landscaping the area, and spaces will be open for sale by September. 12. Discussion of added items. a. Walk & Roll: June 8th from 9 a.m. — 1 p.m. Pawelk asked for Parks & Rec Commission members to attend if it works in their schedule. b. Ellison House: Pawelk said the house sold (as a rehab project) for $30,000. The purchaser has a personal interest in the home as his mother worked as a housekeeper for the Ellison's and she was married in the home. C. Skate Park: Karen Vetsch inquired about putting a skate park in town. Pawelk said he will look into options for park improvements next year to potentially include a skate park. d. Pickleball Courts: Karen Vetsch expressed concerns about the surface on the 0' Street rink as it is too rough to play pickleball there. The rink surface was striped for pickleball but Pawelk said there is not a budget for resurfacing the area. There are also too many carryover projects from last year which are a higher priority at this time. Sara Cahill said she has referred people to the school for pickleball or indoor play at the MCC gym. 13. Next regular meeting scheduled for July 25, 2019. The next regular Parks Commission Meeting is scheduled for July 25, 2019, at 8:00 a.m. in the Public Works Conference Room. 17. Adiourn. Meeting adjourned 10:25 a.m. RECORDED BY: Cometh C Ngrcc ! DATE APPROVED: ATTEST: Page 4 of 4 CITY OF mo�ii�RO MONTICELLO COMMUNITY CENTER Transactions and visits Year to date (04.30.19), the MCC processed 31,654 transactions compared to 34,861 transactions last year. The MCC year to date revenue is up from the previous year by $39,076, totaling $564,776. Year to date membership visits are up by 769, totaling 56,592 visits. Members are at a total of 5,253 compared to 5,878 last year at this time. MCC 4/30 YTD Activity MCC 4/30 YTD Revenue 70000 $600,000 60000 $500,000 50000 $400,000 40000 30000 $300,000 20000 $200,000 10000 $100,000 0 YTD Transactions YTD Member Visits $ 0 2017 0 2018 0 2019 0 2017 0 2018 0 2019 MCC 4/30 Members 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Council Connection - 05/28/19 Program updates The Monticello Community Center was awarded a grant from the Central MN Arts Board in the amount of $9,400 for artist D. Helene Woods to create and install a mural series on the exterior of the community center building designed to depict healthy activity opportunities available in the center. On Friday, April 12, one hundred children registered and participated in the Egg Dive event. Plastic eggs were dropped in the pool, kids collected the eggs and turned them in for prizes. The event was so popular we may choose to run two dates next spring. Adult Sports Leagues: Men's spring hockey is just wrapping up for the season. Nine teams participated this year. This hockey league is coordinated collaboratively with the ice arena and Monticello schools. Men's spring softball league began on April 23 and we have twelve teams participating this year. 200 people attended our first Pet Expo held on Saturday, May 11 in the gymnasium. We had twelve exhibitors offer a variety of products, pet adoptions, and demonstrations. The exhibitors were pleased with the community participation and would like to see this event continue annually. The Farmers Market opens for the outdoor season on Thursday, May 23 and we have a full house with twenty vendors participating. The popular Power of Produce kid's program will begin July 11 once more produce is available to purchase. Music on the Mississippi kicks off this season with the Shane Martin Band on Thursday, May 30. Several sponsors make the concerts possible. A big thank you to Central MN Arts Board, Monticello Lions, Bursch Travel, Costco of St. Cloud, Galindo Real Estate Group, All Elements, Quinlivan and Hughes, and CentraCare Health -Monticello. MCC Maintenance staff secured quotes and coordinated with contractors to remove the old neon lighting system and update the Hi -Way Liquors sign to a LED lighting system. See attached pictures of the project. 3�tl ONINN33 ,i 3�tl NO5NOW03 a �OO u a OP z 1sbbO3J o � est Z. 9p� 0 bgt T met z i 5 f r+i aare�Na�otN/ a 1 3�tl N011tl3 I z z 0 < F o ,SZ£ i� m 0 S1V3H £ I o o z 0 w �� 1 ry pd315Wadi aQ ,i 3�tl NO5NOW03 a �OO u a OP z 1sbbO3J o � est Z. 9p� 0 bgt T met z i 5 f r+i aare�Na�otN/ a 1 L— I z z < F o ,SZ£ m S1V3H £ I o o L— PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES - SPECIAL MEETING I JUNE 27, 2019 MINUTES SPECIAL PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING THURSDAY JUNE 27, 2019 - 9:15 A.M. "To enhance community pride through developing and maintaining City parks with a high standard of quality. " Members Present: Lynn Anderson, Anna Bohanon, Jack Gregor, Julie Jelen, Nancy McCaffrey Members Absent: Bill Fair, Brian Stoll, Karen Vetsch Staff Present: Beth Green, Tom Pawelk, Angela Schumann 1. Call to Order. Vice -Chair Jack Gregor called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. and declared a quorum. 2. Consideration to review for recommendation park dedication requirements for the proposed Haven Ridge residential subdivision. Angela Schumann said the Parks & Recreation Commission is asked to consider a formal recommendation related to park dedication requirements for Haven Ridge, a proposed 335 -unit residential plat. The proposed plat of Haven Ridge is 213.92 acres. An 11% land dedication requirement would require a total land dedication area of 23.53 acres. The cash dedication would be based upon the value of the raw land at the time of final plat. As this is a multi -phase project, the calculation on value of the raw land will be made at each final plat for the development. There is a proposed development of a roundabout intersection at Fallon/Eisele and 85' Street, and the alignment for Fallon Avenue would impact the existing 5.0 -acre park at Hunters Crossing on the southwest edge, creating a parkland loss of approximately .I acres. The developer has proposed a land dedication of 1.89 acres based on the proposed roundabout configuration. The area includes stormwater ponding. This city's park dedication ordinance indicates that the city shall not accept park dedication credit for land within a drainage and utility easement for stormwater management. As such the applicable park dedication land area credit is 1.04 acres. In addition to the Hunters Crossing park land area dedication, the developer is proposing to construct two pathway trails within the development, both located in the southwest portion of the plat. These trails will meander along the stormwater and wetland facilities in Outlots N, M and O. The developer will receive land area credit for these corridors, at 2.77 acres in total. City staff have recommended an additional trail following the southerly edge of the wetland in Outlot G. A 30' trail easement will be required, for which the developer Page 1 of 2 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES - SPECIAL MEETING I JUNE 27, 2019 will receive park dedication land credit. Staff further recommend a trail continuing along the east side of Edmonson Avenue as it veers southwesterly. This trail provides another internal neighborhood connection to the wetland trail and creates a loop system. Land area dedication is proposed to be provided for this trail easement area. In addition to park land area, the developer is asked to construct 10' bituminous trails along Fallon, Edmonson, 85th Street NE, and Eisele Avenue, including the roundabout portion. If the city requires construction of these pathways within the existing unreconstructed right of way, it is staff's understanding that the city is required to credit the developer for trail construction. The credits for trail construction are proposed to be applied with each phase at the time of final plat and will be calculated against the 11 % requirement based on the value of raw land at the time of final plat, as well as any land dedication provided with that phase. The Parks Superintendent has recommended that a connection pathway be provided between the northwest leg of the roundabout trail into the playground area at Hunters Crossing. In addition, the developer is responsible for tree protection within the plat. The loss of trees in the roundabout area will require the replacement of trees within the project. The Parks Superintendent recommends the tree replacement occur within the Hunters Crossing park area at locations to be determined. LYNN ANDERSON MOVED TO RECOMMEND PARK DEDICATION IN A COMBINATION OF PARK LAND AREA ADJACENT TO THE HUNTERS CROSSING PARK, TRAIL EASEMENT, AND TRAIL CONSTRUCTION COSTS AS DETAILED. CASH IN LIEU WILL BE CALCULATED AT THE TIME OF FINAL PLAT. MOTION SECONDED BY NANCY MCCAFFREY. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, 5-0. 17. Adiourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:30 a.m. RECORDED BY: o`�eth C�qYy-en DATE APPROVED: ATTEST: Page 2 of 2 I Al F ONLY ` h ONLY (t PROGRAMS Educotion, encouragement, and evaluation WALKING SCHOOL BUS/ BIKE TRAIN A group of students walking or biking to school togeth- er with the help of a trusted adult or older student. Lead: School staff, PTO, partners SAFETY CAMPAIGN A safety campaign builds awareness around safe walk- ing, biking, and driving behavior. A campaign could be student -led in partnership with law enforcement. Lead: City of Monticello, law enforcement, partners rulmNu¢ M-1 nveRrue Hr a0 ® Sein gaol re►HsroRrAT�on COMMUNICATION School communication can inform and educate parents and families about transportation options, traffic safety, and the benefits of walking and biking. Lead: School administration and district staff BIKE CLUB A bike club is a group of students with a shared inter- est in bicycling. They can go on rides, fix bikes, and act as role models for younger students. Lead: School staff, student groups i ROUTE MAPS A walking or biking route map shows safe and com- fortable routes and crossings for students and families walking or biking to school. Lead: School district, City of Monticello WALK/BIKE FIELD TRIPS Field trips made by walking or biking give students a supportive environment to practice skills and show- case benefits of walking and biking. Lead: School and district staff WALK & BIKE DAYS Walk/Bike to School Day celebrates and encourages active trips to school. Minnesota celebrates Walk/Bike to School Day in October, February, and May Lead: School and district staff WALK/BIKE EDUCATION Walking and biking safety education can be shared through class curriculum or special events. Lead: School and district staff, City of Monticello, Wright County, youth mentors p� GET INVOLVED Plan your walking or biking route with your student, watch for students and respect school zone speed limits, and show your support by volunteering! Contact your school principal to learn how you can get involved. Learn more about Safe Routes to School in Minnesota at: www.mnsaferoutestoschool.org PARK & WALK During a park and walk, buses and parents drop students at a designated off -campus location so that students can walk the rest of the way to school. Lead: School and district staff, Hoglund Bus Company CONTACT Gabe Hackett Little Mountain Elementary gabe.hackett@monticello.k12.mn.us 763-272-2601 j MINNESOTA 1 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL WAuG S SSKATESAFEI BIKE SAFE! ^~ rulmNu¢ M-1 nveRrue Hr a0 ® Sein gaol re►HsroRrAT�on COMMUNICATION School communication can inform and educate parents and families about transportation options, traffic safety, and the benefits of walking and biking. Lead: School administration and district staff BIKE CLUB A bike club is a group of students with a shared inter- est in bicycling. They can go on rides, fix bikes, and act as role models for younger students. Lead: School staff, student groups i ROUTE MAPS A walking or biking route map shows safe and com- fortable routes and crossings for students and families walking or biking to school. Lead: School district, City of Monticello WALK/BIKE FIELD TRIPS Field trips made by walking or biking give students a supportive environment to practice skills and show- case benefits of walking and biking. Lead: School and district staff WALK & BIKE DAYS Walk/Bike to School Day celebrates and encourages active trips to school. Minnesota celebrates Walk/Bike to School Day in October, February, and May Lead: School and district staff WALK/BIKE EDUCATION Walking and biking safety education can be shared through class curriculum or special events. Lead: School and district staff, City of Monticello, Wright County, youth mentors p� GET INVOLVED Plan your walking or biking route with your student, watch for students and respect school zone speed limits, and show your support by volunteering! Contact your school principal to learn how you can get involved. Learn more about Safe Routes to School in Minnesota at: www.mnsaferoutestoschool.org PARK & WALK During a park and walk, buses and parents drop students at a designated off -campus location so that students can walk the rest of the way to school. Lead: School and district staff, Hoglund Bus Company CONTACT Gabe Hackett Little Mountain Elementary gabe.hackett@monticello.k12.mn.us 763-272-2601 j MINNESOTA 1 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL INFRASTRUCTURE HIGH PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS These locations are identified as high priorities for infrastructure improvements. Monticello Middle School OHigh traffic speeds/volumes; long crossing dis- tance; poor yielding. Upgrade beacon to RRFB; install median refuge and yield/stop markings. OLimited separation between people walking and driving; sidewalk gaps. Install sidewalks, boulevards, curb extensions. Adjust lighting. Pinewood Elementary OLong crossing distance; unpredictable yielding behavior. Upgrade curb ramps. Consider curb extensions, median refuge, and/or RRFB. OSidewalk gap. Install sidewalk where missing and provide enhanced pedestrian crossings. Consider upgrading shoulders to bike lanes. OSidewalk gaps. Fill sidewalks gaps with priority to connection on north side to provide continu- ous link on 6th. OSidewalk gap. Fill sidewalk gaps with priority to connection on north side. Consider additional streetscape enhancements with sidewalk infill. ©Sidewalk gap; high traffic speeds/volumes. Install sidewalk and/or trail with priority to con- nection on north side. Little Mountain, Monticello High, Eostview OHigh traffic speeds/volumes; no pedestrian connection on east side. Provide sidewalk or trail on east side of Fallon. OHigh traffic speeds/volumes; long crossings; no trail on south side; poor yielding. Install trail on south side; enhance key crossings. OHigh traffic speeds/volumes; no pedestrian connection. Install trail along Fenning; consider pedestrian realm enhancements. OHigh traffic volumes; long crossing distance. Minimize turning radii; consider curb exten- sions, enhanced lighting, LED STOP signs. ©High traffic volumes; long crossing distance. Minimize turning radii; upgrade ADA ramps; consider curb extensions or median island. OConsider pedestrian- and bicycle -friendly street design as part of future development including connectivity and dedicated facilities. Routes, crossings, and street projects JUNE 2019 MONTICELLO, MN Monticello High School Monticello Middle School Pinewood Elementary School Little Mountain Elementary Eastview Education Center itDEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION I&q MINNESOTA i}r: SAFE I. ROUTES TO SCHOOL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We gratefully acknowledge the participation of the following individuals and organizations in the development of this Safe Routes to School Plan. GABE HACKETT, Local SRTS Co -Leader Principal Little Mountain Elementary ANNABOHANON Health Promotion Coordinator Wright County Public Health CLAY NORMAN Assistant Principal Pinewood Elementary MELISSA PRIBYL Community Health and Wellness Specialist CentraCare - Monticello ANGELA SCHUMANN Community Development Director City of Monticello MIKE CARR Principal Monticello High School a MINNESOTA i} SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JACOB THUNANDER Community and Economic Development Coordinator City of Monticello JOE DOCKENDORF Principal Eastview Education Center HANNAH DOCKENDORF Community Wellness Specialist CentraCare - St. Cloud MATT LEONARD Public Works Director/Engineer City of Monticello MATT COALWELL Assistant Principal Monticello Middle School RYAN MELHOUSE Engineer City of Monticello alta PLANNING + DESIGN Z/.�N ASSOCIATES TABLE OF CONTENTS of INTRODUCTION + CONTEXT ................................ 4 The Vision ..........................7 Monticello Schools in Context ........8 Community Engagement.............11 PROGRAMS ............................ 12 Introduction to Programs .......................... 13 Recommended Programs .........................13 rill 1110 & Introduction to A. For More Information.............43 Infrastructure ......................21 B. SRTS Facts for School Existing Issues and Conflicts ........22 Communication ....................44 Monticello Middle School C. Summary of Planning Process ..... Infrastructure Recommendations ..... 27 Pinewood Elementary E. Student Residences ..............52 Infrastructure Recommendations ..... 29 Little Mountain Elementary, G. Student Hand Tally .............. Monticello High, and Eastview H. Environment & Policy Education Center Infrastructure Assessment ...................... Recommendations ................. 31 04 HOW TO GET INVOLVED..... 34 Using this Plan .....................35 Final Thoughts.....................39 APPENDICES .......................... 41 A. For More Information.............43 B. SRTS Facts for School Communication ....................44 C. Summary of Planning Process ..... 47 D. Existing Conditions ..............49 E. Student Residences ..............52 F. Parent/Caregiver Survey .......... 57 G. Student Hand Tally .............. 112 H. Environment & Policy Assessment ...................... 127 I. School Zone Hazard Observation Tool..................129 J. Engagement Summary........... 174 K. Infrastructure Toolbox ...........180 L. Bike Parking for Schools .........188 M. Maintenance Planning ........... 190 N. Equity in SRTS Planning ......... 191 r - 7-- mom" -,r--- 11111J 11111 ' i r INTRODUCTION + CONTEXT Opp 11111J 11111 ' i r INTRODUCTION + CONTEXT Why Safe Routes to School? ...................................................................... 48% THE PERCENTAGE OF CHILDREN WALKING OR BIKING TO SCHOOL HAS DROPPED PRECIPITOUSLY WITHIN ONE GENERATION KIDS WHO WALK OR BIKE TO SCHOOL: Arrive alert and able to focus on school Are more likely to be a healthy body weight Are less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety MOST KIDS ARE NOT GETTING ENOUGH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ROADS NEAR SCHOOLS ARE CONGESTED, DECREASING SAFETY AND AIR QUALITY FOR CHILDREN Get most of the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity during the trip to and from school Demonstrate improved test scores and better school performance* THE VICIOUS CYCLE OF INCREASED TRAFFIC LEADING Fewer students More parents TO REDUCED WALKING walking & biking driving children AND BICYCLING: to school to school Rising concern Increased about safety of traffic at and walking & biking around school O O O O *More information, including primary sources, can be found at http://guide.saferoutesinfo.org THE SIX E'S Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs use a variety of strategies to make it easy, fun, and safe for children to walk and bike to school. These strategies are often called the "Six E's." EQUITY Equity is an overarching concept that applies to all of the E's. Equity in SRTS means that the SRTS program is inclu- sive, celebrates the diversity of students, allocates resources to overcome inequities, and supports a community where walking and biking is safe, comfortable, and convenient for every student. EDUCATION ENFORCEMENT Programs designed to teach children about Law enforcement strategies aimed at traffic safety, bicycle and pedestrian skills, improving driver behavior near schools and and traffic decision-making. ensuring safe roads for all users. Y ENCOURAGEMENT EVALUATION A Programs that make it fun for students to O Strategies to help understand program walk and bike, including incentive programs, effectiveness, identify improvements, and regular events or classroom activities. ensure program sustainability. eENGINEERING Physical projects that are built to improve walking and bicycling conditions. NAVIGATING THIS PLAN Below is a roadmap for navigating the way through this plan. Use it to find all the information you need for helping students be safer and more active! PROGRAMS _ HOW TO GET INVOLVED Getting children to walk and bike to school = The more people involved with a local requires fun and engaging programs for Safe Routes to School process, the more schools and families. Turn to this section successful it will be! Use this section to find for recommended events, activities, and out how you can be a part of this important strategies that will get students moving. AYN INFRASTRUCTURE 10 Ensuring the safety of students on their trips to and from school means upgrading the streets. See this section for suggestions to improve the safety, comfort and convenience of walking and biking, including paint, signage, and signals. initiative. APPENDICES There is more information available than could fit in this plan. For additional resources. turn to this section. The Vision Walking and biking to school is safe, comfortable, and fun for all students in Monticello. In the summer of 2018, Monticello Public School Dis- trict #882 was awarded a Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Safe Routes to School (SRTS) planning assistance grant to hold a planning workshop and create a plan for all five schools in the City of Monticello: Monticello Middle School, Monticello High School, Eastview Education Center, Little Mountain Elementary, and Pinewood Elementary. This plan pro- vides recommendations for all five schools. In the grant application, the District discussed the partnership with the City of Monticello and their shared commitment to active transportation citywide. In 2011, the City created the Parks & Pathway System Plan and is currently identifying and prioritizing sidewalk and trail connections throughout the community. Addi- tionally, the 2017 Monticello Strategic Plan identifies a goal to make Monticello a more walkable and bikeable community by connecting places and investing in people. Support for walking and biking comes from the District, as well. The Monticello Public School District wellness policy sets direction to "promote and protect students' health, well-being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity". Looking to the future, Monticello shares a vision with the State of Minnesota to create safe, accessible, O convenient, and affordable multi -modal transportation opportunities for all. The community hopes this plan will enhance the quality of life for all residents of Mon- ticello. Throughout the planning process, stakeholders from key organizations came together to create a team of connected individuals committed to safe walking and biking to schools in Monticello. These individuals — listed in the acknowledgments at the beginning of this document — will continue working towards imple- mentation of the recommendations found in this plan. This plan was made possible with support from Mn - DOT and developed in coordination with the City of Monticello, Wright County, and the school district. It is the product of meetings and visits with staff, communi- ty members, and youth in Monticello. The following pages identify program and infrastruc- ture recommendations to support a safe and comfort- able environment for people walking and biking to schools in Monticello. All recommendations are intend- ed to be on an approximate five-year timeline. While not all of these recommendations can be implemented immediately, it is important to achieve shorter -term successes while laying the groundwork for progress toward some of the larger and more complex projects. 11019 *101011114 IN 0KKK*]019 XA A Monticello Schools in Context DISTRICT STRUCTURE Monticello Public School District draws from a large geographic area of Wright County that generally runs along the south bank of the Mississippi River from Clearwater to Albertville. Most students attending the five schools live within the City of Monticello (estimated population 13,600), while some come from the smaller surrounding cities of Becker, Clearwater, Big Lake, and Albertville. The following pages provide a brief overview of each school. For much of this document, Eastview Education Center, Little Mountain Elementary, and Monticello High School will be discussed together because of their close proximity to each other. MONTICELLO MIDDLE SCHOOL Monticello Middle School serves over 1,000 students in grades 6-8. The school is located on Broadway St E (Wright County Road 39) on the eastern edge of downtown Monticello and just a few blocks from the Mississippi River. The school campus includes a base- ball field, track, tennis courts, and the Moose-Sherritt Ice Arena, which serves as a major destination in the city and region for ice hockey and skating. There are parking lots of varying sizes surrounding the school building with accesses from Broadway and Washington St. Broadway is a major thoroughfare in Monticello and carries high volumes of traffic into and out of town. MONTICELLO MIDDLE SCHOOL MONTICELLO, MN SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA 0 MONTICELLO HIGH SCHOOL, LITTLE MOUNTAIN ELEMENTARY, EASTVIEW EDUCATION CENTER Monticello High School serves over 1,200 students in grades 9 through 12. Little Mountain Elementary, located to the west of the high school, welcomes nearly 700 students in grades 1 through 5. Eastview Education Center, which serves as the District's early childhood education, pre -Kindergarten, and Kinder- garten school, serves nearly 360 students. It is located to the east of Monticello High School. All three schools are located on the same super block, on the opposite side of Interstate 94 from downtown Monticello, the middle school, and Pinewood Elemen- tary. The super block is bounded by Fenning Ave on the east, Fallon Ave NE on the west, School Blvd on the south, and industrial and commercial land uses to the north. Relative to the traditional grid street network north of Interstate 94, the neighborhoods surrounding these three schools include newer housing develop- ments with curvilinear streets. Despite the relatively new housing stock and associated lower density development, there is a high density of students in the surrounding neighborhoods who face challenges with Fallon Ave, Fenning Ave, and School Blvd, especially where these streets intersect. F� MONTICELLO HIGH SCHOOL, LITTLE MOUNTAIN ELEMENTARY & EASTVIEW EDUCATION CENTER MONTICELLO, MN 1 10 11 101 bill" 11W] 0 QKi]019 *111 PINEWOOD ELEMENTARY Pinewood Elementary servesjust over 900 students in grades 1 through 5. It's located on the western edge of Monticello along Broadway St and just two blocks from the Mississippi River. Railroad tracks run along the back side of the school along with a fence that re- stricts access to the school. Between Broadway St and the entrance to the building is a large parking lot and a parent drop off loop. To the west of school is more parking, tennis courts, and ball fields. While Broadway St is narrower than further east near the middle school (three lanes compared with four), there are still challenges for students traveling to and from the school across Broadway as vehicles entering and exiting town have higher speeds. PINEWOOD ELEMENTARY MONTICELLO, MN 10 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA Community Engagement O Many people helped develop the recommendations found in this plan. Besides stakeholders listed in the acknowledg- ments section above, project staff engaged the local community through a variety of tools described in the table below. This information came from people who know the issues faced better than anyone else - those who walk and bike in Monticello. For more information related to engagement results and early data collection, including the School Zone Hazard Observa- tion Assessment and Student Travel Tally, see the Appendix section that accompanies this document. GROUP ENGAGED; ENGAGEMENT TOOL PROJECT TIMING FEEDBACK GATHERED Parent Survey Parents and County Roads 14, 39, Highway 25, and School Blvd are major caregivers of students barriers An online survey sent to families Lighting should be improved at crossings that asks parents and caregivers Fall 2018 Concern about violence and crimes against children how they feel about their child walking and biking to school. Administration Survey School principals and District and school transportation policies do not address administrators walking and biking An online survey sent to principals Schools collaborate with law enforcement to enforce speed limits and administrators that asks about Fall 2018 and other traffic laws school and district policies or practices that support walking and biking to school. It also asks about the physical and built environment surrounding school. Online mapping tool Monticello community No feedback gathered at time of plan writing members An interactive tool where users can add their walking and biking routes, Fall 2018 barriers, and destinations to an online map. Pop up engagement tabling Students, parents, Drivers rarely yield to students waiting to cross at intersections caregivers, families near schools In-person events held at schools or Biggest barriers are high traffic roadways and lack of lighting in community events where project Fall 2018 darker months of the year staff talk with families about ways to improve comfort while walking and biking to school. Student conversations Monticello students Students are interested in walking and biking but they often live too far away In person conversations with Fall 2018 Students informally participate in SRTS programs like walking students about their experiences school buses and bike trains by traveling together in groups walking and biking in the commu- nity. Rapid Planning Workshop Local stakeholders The community is excited and motivated to increase the number of students walking and biking to school, but major barriers exist A two day workshop held in Monti- Fall 2018 in the community. cello with local stakeholders to dis- cuss walking and biking challenges and opportunities. IA t — — •yYJ�'sr�wSti?: - At PROGRAMS Introduction to Programs The Safe Routes to School movement acknowledges that infrastructure changes are necessary for shifting school travel behavior, but are insufficient on their own. Programs are a necessary component of any successful SRTS plan. While engineering improvements such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and bikeways are important, equally im- portant are education programs to give children and families basic safety skills, encouragement programs to highlight walking and bicycling to school as fun and normal, enforcement against unsafe and illegal motor- ist behavior, and evaluation of the impact of invest- ments and non -infrastructure efforts. Often, programs that help to get more kids walking and biking lead to increased public support for infrastructure projects - they can be an important first step towards building out the physical elements that make walking and bik- ing safer and more comfortable. And relative to certain infrastructure projects, most programs are very low cost. It is important to always deliver these programs equitably so all Monticello students have the opportu- nity to walk and bike safely and comfortably. The Monticello community and schools are already working towards a healthy and active student popula- tion. The District has participated in several SRTS pro- grams including access to a District -wide bicycle fleet for use by schools, participation in Walk! Bike! Fun! training and curriculum, Walk and Bike to School Day, and an annual Walk'n' Roll event celebrating the City's parks and pathways where local partners and busi- nesses in Monticello participate and promote a healthy lifestyle. Schools also use crossing guards during arrival and dismissal and give fifth grade students the opportunity to participate in crossing guard training at the Legionville School Safety Patrol Training Center. Wright County has also partnered with local law en- forcement to organize and host a Stop for Me pedestri- an safety campaign on Broadway St and School Blvd. These campaigns educate drivers and pedestrians about the rules and responsibilities of road users. It is important that the events and activities listed above are continued! The momentum that has been built from these existing programs will allow future programming and SRTS efforts to be successful. Recommended Programs To increase the number of students walking and biking to school, the following programs are recommended for the Monticello Public School District. In order for a program to be successful and sustainable, a network of support within and outside school is necessary. The programs listed below were recommended after con- versations with school and district staff, parents, stu- dents, community members, and city and county staff. The team discussed existing resources at schools, in the district, and within the community that might sup- port programs to ensure they succeed. The following programs are recommended for the Monticello Public School District: • Walking School Bus/Bike Train • Bike Club • School Communication to Families • Student Walk/Bike Safety Education • Walking/Biking Route Maps • Community Safety Campaign • Expanding Walk & Bike to School Day • Expanding Remote Drop-off/Park and Walk • Walking and Biking Field Trips • Bike Mechanics Class/Ea rn-a-Bike On the following pages, additional information is pro- vided for programs listed above - a brief description, a suggestion for who should lead the program, a sug- gested timeline, the schools within Monticello that the program would be best for, and rationale to support its recommendation. 0 z0zh 7IuK 13 {'�:: ice.-:`•. WALKING SCHOOL BUS/BIKE TRAIN A Walking School Bus is a group of children who walk to school with one or more adults. Parents can take turns leading the bus, which follows the same route each time and picks up children from their homes or designated bus stops at designated times. Ideally buses run on a regular schedule so families can count on it, but they often begin as a one-time pilot event. Older students or "walking buddies" could also be used once a safe route has been established with the help of a trusted adult. A Bike Train is very similar to a Walking School Bus: groups of students accompanied by one or more adults bicycle together on a pre -planned route to school. Routes can originate from a particular neighborhood or begin at a park, parking lot, or other meeting place. Which schools it would be good for: All schools. Walking school buses work well for elementary and middle school students who live within walking distance from school. Bike trains may work well for middle and high school students and can include students who live further from school. Program lead: School staff, PTO. Support from Rotary/In- teract Club, Senior Center, youth mentors program. Timeline: Short term (1-2 years) Why we recommend it: Walking school buses and bike trains give parents additional feeling of security knowing their child is traveling in a group and with a trusted adult or older student. Many people who completed the survey ex- pressed concern over their child being alone on their way to school. An informal walking school bus already exists at 14 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA Little Mountain, where students wait at the midblock cross- ing of School Boulevard until a crossing guard safely cross- es students. Monticello schools have strong parent teacher organizations, which provide excellent opportunities for organizing a walking school bus for younger students, and a bike train for middle and high school students. PARENT SURVEYS AND STU- DENT TRAVEL TALLIES .................................. There are two great tools to evaluate all the SRTS work in the community: Parent Surveys: Recommended once every 2-3 years. A hard copy survey or link to an online version can be sent to parents to gather their perceptions of walking and biking to school. Surveys can be distributed through newsletters, school websites, or at conferences. Student Travel Tally: Recommended in fall and spring of every year. In -class tallies ask students how they traveled to and from school on a given day. �elq�[1sYewe� ® ® I Fftl ® PARENTS S Cl1ARLIAliS x�wttr rX� 'r•�•'^" IALt� &SKATE SAFE! BIKE SAFE! .cr,eevoc,...wc uCNw11 .sx � Y.irI AATR �elq�[1sYewe� i+d w.wa....e .s.x.l.r „wiA w...xn H• '• .�•. -+4 ,-, w-ylMwy�rY..e •y^w 4..n W... .-.--._.—.a ,. w. �. Ww. a.sY.N<..w wM weo-.e,.�d aw.Fn� n�wnw mw �4M w. uCNw11 .sx � Y.irI AATR •-•• •• w. .v4L ....n4nw..+.a�re�tw�w-0 Nw� iO wRX �N¢IWrk X^�-••m^••• ^Ir tf=ITOI�IMNrI• .a. -i. wF.-�wM-e eY �.. x,A w..i•..1 and � � � wvn µpp VXw[rwcwwf. w v ryq ws+W Kpex�-rMrrs. Dl lHT OF ® $alnf Pled s....p.r-...i..i ... ��n—wvn-+.e�y TRANPARiµSPORTATION SCHOOL COMMUNICATION TO FAMILIES Communication could come as a paper or electronic news- letter or school social media blast describing safe trans- portation practices in and around school, making sure to elevate walking and biking as an option. Messaging could also inform parents of safe crossings and how to dress appropriately for the weather. Information could describe where parking for bikes is located at each school as well as other resources on site. The communication could also highlight SRTS news and efforts to date and advertise any upcoming events related to walking and biking. Which schools it would be good for: All schools Program lead: Monticello School District Communication, school administration Timeline: Immediately - information can be shared through existing channels Why we recommend it: Consistent messaging highlight- ing and elevating walking and biking tips and events is a great way to continue the momentum built during the planning process. Coordinate with Monticello School District Transportation to develop tailored messaging for individual schools. Monticello School District families are heavily engaged and involved in the schools. Leverage this engagement to promote walking and biking through communication channels including print, social, and other electronic media. See the SRTS talking points in Appendix B for more ideas. (9) BIKE CLUB A student bike club can be a formal or informal group of students who share an interest in biking for transportation or recreation. They can go on rides, commute to school, and fix bikes together. They can lead younger students and be advocates for safety and resources for people biking in the community. Which schools it would be good for: Monticello Middle School, Monticello High School Program lead: Student groups, school staff for support and resources Timeline: Immediately -just organize a group of interested students! Why we recommend it: Several respondents to the caregiver survey expressed that their students would be interested in a bike club and/or participating in group rides. This would be a great way for students to gain experience in community and student organizing and leadership. Students could participate in inclusive group rides, take advantage of the Montiview Mountain Bike Challenge Course, or formally participate in the Minnesota High School Cycling League. 9Y0Zal:7\uR�1--1 WALKING/BIKING ROUTE MAPS A bicycling or walking route map shows safe and low stress routes and crossings for students and families walking or biking to school. Route maps can also highlight approxi- mate route distances or times, walking school bus stops, rules of the road, and other helpful information to help students and families feel more comfortable walking or biking to school. Which schools it would be good for: All schools Program lead: City of Monticello, Monticello School Dis- trict. Support from CentraCare. Timeline: Short term (1-2 years) Why we recommend it: During the Rapid Planning Work- shop, we heard that some parents and students don't realize how close to school they actually live. In the surveys sent home, parents expressed frustration about how long bus rides home take despite seemingly living so close to school. Maps identifying safe crossings and streets with sidewalks would give families the necessary information to try walking and biking. Consider including the time and distance to school based on the suggested route, and coordinating with the City's existing Parks & Pathways map. Distribute maps online and in print at Walk and Roll events. 16 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA -� for pods tro to COMMUNITY SAFETY CAMPAIGN A safety campaign is an effective way to build awareness around students walking and biking to school and encour- age safe driving behavior among student drivers, parents, and other motorists. A campaign can use media at or near schools including posters, business window stickers, yard signs, and/or street banners to remind drivers to slow down and use caution in school areas. This type of campaign can also address other specific behaviors such as walking or bicycling to school, school bus safety, and/or parent drop- off and pick-up behavior. Which schools it would be good for: All schools Program lead: Wright County Sheriff's Office and Public Health, City of Monticello, CentraCare, Just Drive, Safe Communities, schools for promotional material Timeline: Short term (1-2 years) Why we recommend it: Driver behavior and enforcement was a top concern expressed through caregiver surveys and community engagement. Distracted driving was also the top concern of Wright County residents who respond- ed to the 2018 Community Health Needs Assessment. Because this plan considers all schools in Monticello, there is a unique opportunity to conduct a city-wide safety cam- paign. Consider highlighting student walking and biking routes and driver behavior around schools as part of local Stop for Me and Just Drive campaigns. Build on community and school spirit and pride to promote safe driving speeds and proper yielding behavior. Shops and businesses downtown can put posters in their windows designed by students to promote safe behavior by all people traveling in Monticello. WALK AND BIKE TO SCHOOL DAY Walk and bike to school days are organized events en- couraging students to walk or bicycle to school. They can happen as part of National Walk/Bike to School Days, or monthly or weekly. Which schools it would be good for: All schools Program lead: Monticello School District, school staff Timeline: Immediately Why we recommend it: Walk to School Day is a great way to build energy and excitement around SRTS. There are great resources to advertise and promote the events on the Minnesota SRTS Resource Center. Consider piloting other programs as part of Walk to School Day such as a walking school bus, bike train, and remote drop-off. Minne- sota Winter Walk to School Day is in February and National Bike to School Day is in May. If the event is successful, con- sider organizing monthly or weekly events such as Walking Wednesdays. Consider distributing Walk/Bike Route maps ahead of Walk and Bike to School Day events to educate families about recommended routes and crossing loca- tions. 0 FURTHER READING ......................................... For a complete list of all potential programs and descriptions, see http://mndotsrts.aItaprojects.net/ q* 4UNIF----- (9) STUDENT WALK/BIKE SAFETY EDUCATION Student safety education can be implemented through a variety of programs. Walk! Bike! Fun! walking and biking safety curriculum, group bicycle rides, and integration into driver's education are just a few ways students can learn to be safer while walking, biking, and driving. There are many existing resources through MnDOT, the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (Bike MN), and Wright County. Encourage more PE teachers and other interested staff to get trained to teach Walk! Bike! Fun! Which schools it would be good for: All schools Program lead: Monticello School District and Community Education, Wight County, City of Monticello, youth mentors program for support Timeline: Short term (1-2 years) Why we recommend it: Because this plan considers all schools in Monticello, there is a unique opportunity to create a system that gives all students that come through the district critical safety information. The information and lessons could start in elementary as part of Walk! Bike! Fun!, be practiced as part of bicycle rides using the Wright County Bicycle Fleet in middle school, then taught to new drivers during driver's education through Community Education. Bike MN is currently developing a pilot program that teaches new drivers how to interact and share the road with people walking and biking. More information about the People Friendly Driver Program can be found at: http://www.bikemn.org/education/people-friendly-driver-pi- lot-program 9*10119127TILFAR� VA �] VW4­1 , . PA A� I � Ir Credit: Minneapolis Public Schools WALK AND BIKE FIELD TRIPS A field trip made by foot or by bicycle gives students a supportive environment in which to practice their pedes- trian safety or bicycling skills. Walk/bike field trips can also showcase the many benefits of walking and bicycling for transportation including health and physical activity, pollution reduction, and cost savings. The destination of the field trip may vary, or the field trip could be the ride or walk itself. Which schools it would be good for: All schools Program lead: School staff, Monticello School District to create and promote walking and biking field trip guidance. Timeline: Short term (1-2 years) Why we recommend it: Pinewood Elementary School stu- dents already participate in walking field trips to the library, community center, and senior homes. Students could go to City Hall or Monticello Public Works to learn about city gov- ernment, planning, and engineering, or visit the Mississippi River or local parks to learn about environmental science and ecosystems. is SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA BIKE MECHANICS CLASS / EARN -A -BIKE Bike mechanics classes provide students with hands-on skills to identify and fix bicycles. Classes can be offered as an after-school extracurricular class or as an elective similar to shop classes. Earn -a -Bike programs are bike me- chanic classes where students get to keep the bike they fix when the class is complete. Which schools it would be good for: Monticello Middle School, Monticello High Program lead: Monticello School District/Community Education to organize and coordinate with bike shop in neighboring city Timeline: Long term (4-5 years) Why we recommend it: With no local bicycle shop in town, a bike mechanic elective or extracurricular program would be an excellent way to expose older students to careers or hobbies working with bicycles. Students could work towards repairing a bicycle, then keep it as part of an Earn -a -Bike program. Make sure a trained and qualified mechanic is on site to confirm bicycles are safe to ride. Consider searching for a community member to teach/lead the classes. REMOTE DROP-OFF/PARK AND WALK During a remote drop-off or park and walk, buses and parent drivers drop students at a designated off -campus location and students walk the rest of the way to school. Remote drop-off events can help reduce drop-off conges- tion on campus and provide students who live further from school with an opportunity to walk to school. Which schools it would be good for: All schools Program lead: Monticello School District for coordination with Hoglund Bus Company, school staff for coordination with families Timeline: Medium term (3-4 years) Why we recommend it: Many Monticello students live too far from school to reasonably walk or bike. Park and walk programs create an opportunity for students who live further from school to walk or bike at least part of the way. Consider piloting the event during Walk/Bike to School Day events. EQUITY IN PROGAMMING When planning and implementing SRTS programs, it is important to design events and activities that are inclusive of students of all backgrounds and abilities. Language and cultural barriers, physical abilities, personal safety concerns, and infrastructure barriers can all create po- tential obstacles to participation. Creative outreach, low-cost solutions, and flexible implementation can help overcome obstacles and enable more students and families to participate. For more information about equity in SRTS planning, see Appendix N. 9*10119127TILFAR� V1 ti 0 . Joe INFRASTRUCTURE Introduction to Infrastructure In addition to program recommendations, changes to the streetscope ore essential to making walking and biking to school safer and more comfortable. The initial field review and subsequent meetings yielded specific recommendations to address the key barriers to walking and bicycling in the areas surround- ing the five schools. This plan does not represent a comprehensive list of every project that could improve conditions for walking and bicycling in the neighborhood, but rather the key conflict points and highest priority infrastruc- ture improvements to improve walking and bicycling access to the school. The recommendations range from simple striping changes and school signing to more significant changes to the streets, intersections and school infrastructure. All engineering recommendations are shown on the Recommended Infrastructure Improvements maps and corresponding tables on pages 26-32. It should be noted that funding is limited and all recommendations made are planning -level concepts only. Additional en- gineering studies will be needed to confirm feasibility and final costs for projects. Before recommendations are presented, pages 22- 25 show and discuss conditions currently existing in Monticello. These observations were made during walk assessments. A walk assessment is the process of walking the streets surrounding the schools to assess and observe the barriers and challenges faced by people walking and biking. The Monticello Safe Routes to School team performed a walk assessment led by consultants in the fall of 2018. FURTHER READING .................................. Demonstration projects are an approach to neighborhood building using short-term, low-cost, and scalable interventions to cata- lyze long-term change for safer streets and healthier, more vibrant communities. Many infrastructure improvements near schools can start as demonstration proj- ects in order to test installations and build support for more long term improvements. More information about demonstration projects near schools can be found at the link below. http://www.saferoutespartnership.org/ resources/fact-sheet/tactical-urbanism-and- safe-routes-school 104ia MV11 411"01:»4 Existing Issues and Conflicts This section highlights some of the major issues surrounding the three Monticello campuses. The photos and observa- tions described below were made during the fall of 2018, when the Monticello SRTS team performed a walk assessment of the area surrounding the schools. A walk assessment allowed the team to experience the conditions faced by people who walk and bike in the area. More observations and recommendations to improve conditions can be found on the pages following this overview. MONTICELLO MIDDLE SCHOOL ISSUES AND CONFLICTS Broadway St E & Washington St E This crossing is the main access to school for anyone traveling to or from the north. There is a pedestrian activated amber flashing light, but it does a poorjob of grabbing the attention of oncoming motorists, leading to low yielding compliance. The push button activator is located inconveniently and out-of-the-way for a pedestrian waiting to cross. The crossing of Broadway is long and uncomfortable. Because of the four lane roadway, the hidden threat exists if one driver yields and the driver in the adjacent lane does not. Finally, vegetation and the fence on the southwest corner of the intersection limits visibility of pedestrians waiting to cross. Washington St & 3rd St E This crossing provides a main access to and from the neighborhoods to the west of school. Washington is particularly busy during arrival and dismissal with parent pick-up and drop-off traffic and through traffic. Private vehicles dropping off students encroach on the crosswalk and crossing guards (pictured), limiting visibility of those waiting to cross. A rectangular rapid flashing beacon exists at the crossing that can be activated by pedestrians. This alerts drivers of people waiting to cross. However, visibility is low, especially during darker months. There are also conflicts/confu- sion between people dropping off along the curb and drivers attempting to turn right on Broadway. 3rd St E between Cedar St & Washington St 3rd St E is a main connection to the crossing at Wash- ington St. No pedestrian space (sidewalk or separated trail) exists along this segment of roadway. 22 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA Southeast parking lot/bus loop Although there is an existing trail along Broadway that leads to school grounds, people walking and biking do not have a separated space to access the entrance on Broadway. Currently, students must cross the parking lot, which does not have clear delineated space for dif- ferent modes. There is no clear circulation for vehicles, so bus and car traffic is mixed. Private vehicles typically drop off and pick up in travel lanes, not along the curb. PINEWOOD ELEMENTARY ISSUES AND CONFLICTS Elm St&W3rd St This intersection is a main access to and from the neighborhoods to the east of Pinewood. The crossing distances are long and visibility is low, especially in the darker months. W Broadway St & Otter Creek Rd This crossing provides access to neighborhoods to the north and west of school. Because this location is on the western edge of Monticello, traffic speeds can be high coming in to town as cars slow, and high exiting town as cars increase speed. The crossing is wide and the existing curb radii encourage drivers to turn onto and off of Broadway at high speeds. 104ia MV11 *411" 01.»*] Western driveway access to W Broadway St For people traveling to and from the west, the wide driveway presents a challenge. The existing curb radiii on the driveway apron encourages high speeds into and out of the parking lot, and in order for drivers to see traffic on Broadway, they must encroach on the trail crossing of the driveway where students often cross. 0 FURTHER READING In colder climates, it is important to consider how winter can affect the safety and comfort for youth walking and biking to school. See Appendix M for informa- tion related to winter maintenance that will allow kids to stay active and healthy yearround. 24 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA FURTHER READING For a complete list of infrastructure to increase bicyclist and pedestrian safety and comfort, turn to Appendix K . 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This plan provides an overview of Safe Routes to School with specific recommendations for a 6 E's approach to improve the safety and the health and wellness of students. The specific recommendations in this plan are intended to support improvements and programs over the next five years. These recommen- dations include both long- and short-term infrastruc- ture improvements as well as programmatic recom- mendations. It should be noted that not all of these projects and programs need to be implemented right away to improve the environment for walking and bicycling to school. The recommended projects and programs listed in this plan should be reviewed as part of the overall and ongoing Safe Routes to School strategy. Some projects will require more time, support, and funding than others. It is important to achieve short- er -term successes while laying the groundwork for progress toward some of the larger and more complex projects. MN SRTS Resource Center There are many great resources already available on the Minnesota Safe Routes to School Resource Center. You can find answers to many common questions, infor- mation about upcoming events, and even promotional material that can easily be cus- tomized for your community's SRTS event. The MN SRTS Resource Center is a great way to stay engaged throughout the year! mnsaferoutestoschool.org 7100TH COZH :8 2 1 i q M01 WWI 0�i-' 7 WHO ARE YOU? Successful programs are achieved through the co- ordinated efforts of parent volunteers, school staff, local agency staff, law enforcement, and community advocates, such as public health. Each partner has a key role to play in contributing to a plan's success. The following paragraphs highlight the unique contribu- tions of key partners in Safe Routes to School. I AM A PARENT Parents can use this report to understand the condi- tions at their children's school and to become familiar with the ways an SRTS program can work to make walking and bicycling safer. Concerned parents or city residents have a very important role in the Safe Routes to School process. Parent groups, both formal and informal, have the ability and the responsibility to help implement many of the educational and encourage- ment programs suggested in this plan. Parent groups can also be key to ongoing success by helping to fundraise for smaller projects and programs. I AM A COMMUNITY MEMBER Community residents, even if they don't currently have children enrolled in school, can play an important role in supporting implementation of the plan. They can use this report to better understand where there may be opportunities to participate in programming initia- tives and infrastructure improvements. Community members, including seniors or retirees who may have more flexible schedules than parents with school -aged 36 SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PLAN MONTICELLO, MINNESOTA children, may volunteer in established programs or work with school staff or community partners to start new programs recommended in this plan. I WORK FOR THE SCHOOL DISTRICT School district staff can use this report to prioritize improvements identified on District property and develop programs that educate and encourage stu- dents and parents to seek alternatives to single family commutes to school. District officials are perhaps the most stable of the stakeholders for a Safe Routes to School program and are in the best position to keep the program active over time. District staff can work with multiple schools, sharing information and bringing efficiencies to pro- grams at each school working on Safe Routes. I AM A SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR School administrators have an important role in implementing the recommendations contained within this SRTS plan. For a plan to succeed, the impetus for change and improvement must be supported by the leadership of the school. School administrators can help with making policy and procedural changes to projects that are within school grounds and by distributing informational materials to parents within school publications. Please read the SRTS Facts for School Communication in Appendix B. I AM A TEACHER OR OTHER STAFF MEMBER Other than parents, teachers might interact with students the most. Teachers can include bicycle and pedestrian safety in lesson plans (see Walk! Bike! Fun!). Sharing books in your classroom that promote walking and biking is a good way to get kids interest- ed at an early age. Teachers can also arrange for field trips within walking distance of school and incorporate informal lessons about safety along the way. In gener- al, being positive and encouraging about walking and biking is a great way to start! I WORK FOR THE CITY OR COUNTY City and County staff can use this report to identify citywide issues and opportunities related to walking and bicycling and to prioritize infrastructure improve- ments. City staff can also use this report to support Safe Routes to School funding and support opportuni- ties such as: • MnDOT SRTS grants • Federal SRTS grants • Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) For all infrastructure recommendations, a traffic study and more detailed engineering may be necessary to evaluate project feasibility. Additional public out- reach should be conducted before final design and construction. For recommendations within the public right-of-way, the responsible agency will determine how (and if) to incorporate suggestions into local improvement plans and prioritize funding to best meet the needs of each school community. I WORK FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT Police department staff can use this report to under- stand issues related to walking and bicycling to school and to plan for and prioritize enforcement activities that may make it easier and safer for students to walk and bike to school. The Police Department will be instrumental to the success of the enforcement programs and policies recommended in this plan. The Police Department will also have a key role in working with school administrations in providing officers and assistance to some of the proposed education and encouragement programs. I WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH Public health staff can use this report to identify specif- ic opportunities to collaborate with schools and local governments to support safety improvements and encourage healthy behaviors in school children and their families. .— ». r _ I `' .r ppb rw(� �' . r 0r ��- •p� Ali fy' Final Thoughts This process brought together local stakeholders with a shared vision for students traveling to school by foot and by bicycle. The information and recommendations in this plan are merely a starting point. Though implementing them may seem overwhelming, the important thing to remember is that anything you can do to make it safer and more comfortable for walking and biking in Monticello, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction. Here are some things to remember: THINK ABOUT EQUITY Some students and families experience more barriers than others to walking and biking to school. When thinking about improvements and programs, make sure to consider this and prioritize investments and resources to give the most vulnerable students a safe and comfortable walk and roll to school. TALK ABOUT SRTS A lot of people don't know about SRTS. And that's okay! Continue talking about it and telling people why it's important. There are talking points in Appendix B for reference. CELEBRATE SUCCESS When a staff, parent, student, or community member takes a positive step towards more walking and biking to school, recognize them for it! This encourages others to do the same while giving the person a pat on the back. PARTNER WITH EXISTING ACTIVITIES Don't feel like you have to do it alone! There are many great community events that relate to walking and biking in Monticello. These are great opportunities to promote SRTS without organizing an event of your own. CONTINUE TO EVALUATE Evaluation is the best way to understand the impacts of your efforts. Talking to parents and community members about new improvements, activities, and programs will tell you if you should stay the course or change direction. CONTINUE MEETING AS A SRTS TEAM One of the best ways to continue momentum is meet as a team — even twice a year would be a way to check in with others and learn of successes. Sharing stories inspires others to do good and allows for col- laboration and teamwork. 7100TACOZH:8 2Iiq M01WWI 0�k]