2040 Comprehensive Plan: Envision Shakopee

FILL GAPS IN THE TRAIL SYSTEM Shakopee is considered a regional recreation destination, and the trail system is on its way to being part of this recreational draw. However, disconnections in the trail system can lead to confusion. Many bicycle riders are not comfortable shifting to riding on the street amidst vehicle traffic when they reach a gap in the trail system. Similarly, people on foot are less likely to choose to use a trail if they know gaps in the system will take them far out of their way. Community priorities identified during the planning process emphasized the need to improve trail connections, and multiple comments specifically noted the need for a trail connection across Highway 169 near Southbridge. In order to know which improvements will have the greatest impact, the first opportunity is to identify the major gaps/barriers to safe access to parks from pedestrian and bicycle networks. The Parks and Recreation, Public Works and Planning departments should collaborate to ensure safe and convenient connections to parks within and across the roadway system. Also, planning policy can ensure private development connects to trails and pedestrian pathways. Private and TRAIL GAPATHAUER TRAIL

high potential for wildlife production, public hunting, trapping, fishing, and other compatible recreational uses. Raguet WMA, and much of the other publically owned land along the Minnesota River in Shakopee, is entirely within the floodplain of the Minnesota River and contains floodplain forest, wetland area and grassland. The management emphasis for the Raguet WMA and the other publically held lands is maintaining and improving habitat for wetland and river adjacent wildlife and flora. Opportunities to open up views, vistas and physical access to the river, both in Downtown and beyond should be explored. The multiple different agencies and organizations which own and manage the riverfront will require an increased collaboration in the future to truly unlock the potential of the Minnesota River greenway. The City should look to partner with U.S Fish and Wildlife, Minnesota DNR, Scott County, Three Rivers Park District, the SMSC and private land owners for any future projects to maximize shared assets to respond to resident interest in the Minnesota River Valley.

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ENVISION SHAKOPEE | SECTION V: NATURAL ENVIRONMENT