Parks, Trails & Recreation Master Plan

RECREATION FACILITIES The approach to recreation facilities varies by city. Balance throughout the city is important in order to provide opportunities for residents in multiple neighborhoods. However, Shakopee’s geographic extents make it difficult to justify a true distribution of facilities. There are several significant barriers in Shakopee that divide the city. Highways, major arterials, railroads, large areas of concentrated industrial and big box commercial can all be actualized and perceived barriers to the pedestrian experience. The following map highlights several of these barriers by tracing a 15-minute walking path from the neighborhood and community parks in the city. Beyond this 15-minute path, the time and distance can be perceived as less desirable and/ or too long for some users. Ideally, park and trail opportunities would be available within this network for all residents in Shakopee. However, this may be difficult with the current build out level of the city and the major barriers that are already present. Bolstering the trail gaps, and making the existing street network more safe and appealing will improve the coverage and connection of parks to residents throughout the city. Newly developed areas should focus on this proximity indicator and emphasize trail connections as well as distribution of park facilities. The city should concentrate on providing park space and recreation opportunities to all residents that is guided by the following principles: » » fits the character of the land » » is desired by the neighborhood - as determined by community engagement surrounding a park planning effort » » isn’t duplicating services within geographically proximate park spaces » » is maintainable with current staff and equipment

Park facilities that should exist within a 1/2 mile walking distance of every residence include: » » playgrounds including spaces for 1-5 and 5-12 year old facilities » » trails that connect to other parks or key city destinations, preferably off road. » » open space - maintained and/ or natural

system vision

136 SHAKOPEE PARKS, TRAILS, AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN | SYSTEM VISION