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Park board backs preferred Rice Lake trail reconstruction options, flags tree removals and funding needs
Summary
After public feedback, the board supported advancing preferred Rice Lake Trail reconstruction options into final design: a $1.2 million north-side option (58 trees removed, many ash) and a southeast ADA-replacement option estimated at $3.0 million (approx. 129 trees removed); staff will pursue DNR and other grants and ask the City Council to program the work into the CIP.
The Maple Grove Parks and Recreation Board reviewed Rice Lake trail reconstruction options on Feb. 19 and approved a recommendation that the City Council advance staff’s preferred options into final design and detailed cost estimates.
Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Aimee Peterson said staff and engineering consultants developed three alignment options for the north side of Rice Lake and three for the southeast side; public feedback favored simpler replacements that minimize tree removals, cost and time to construct. Based on that input, staff developed a fourth north-side alternative intended to address safety and environmental outcomes while reducing recurring maintenance problems.
Peterson said the north-side alternative is estimated at about $1,200,000 and would require removal of an estimated 58 trees, including several dead and diseased ash trees. The preferred southeast option, Peterson said, aims to reconstruct to Americans with Disabilities Act standards and is estimated at roughly $3,000,000 with an anticipated removal of about 129 trees, again including a sizeable number of ash trees.
City Engineer RJ Kakach and Parks and Planning Superintendent Ben Jaszewski explained staff will pursue grant opportunities — Minnesota DNR Local Trail Connections and Conservation Partners Legacy grants, and potential Elm Creek Watershed funds — though staff judged the southeast project less likely to score highly in a Metropolitan Council regional solicitation. Kakach said the north-side corridor’s native restoration and connection to regional trails could make it a stronger candidate for some grants.
Board members emphasized safety and long-term maintenance. Vice Chair John Ferm urged a proactive approach to tree removal and root management to reduce future uprooting and root intrusion; Jaszewski said the city will pursue balanced removals and explore root-barrier solutions with partners. Board Member Judy Hanson recommended considering a wider path and signage to accommodate mixed users.
Board Member Ken Helvey moved and Board Member Andy Mielke seconded a motion recommending the City Council advance the preferred north- and southeast-side options into final design and detailed cost estimates. The motion passed on a voice vote (seven ayes, no nays). Staff indicated construction is currently planned for 2029 pending funding and grant awards.
