Title
Authorizing the Department of Parks and Recreation to accept grants from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) totaling $92,391 for Winter snow equipment acquisition and trail improvements at Highland Park and Phalen Park.
Body
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources promotes recreational opportunities and supports local governments through grants for trail improvements and equipment acquisition; and
WHEREAS, the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to enhancing outdoor recreational activities for residents by providing safe and accessible facilities for winter sports; and
WHEREAS, the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department has been awarded two grants through the Federal Recreational Trails Program (FRTP) administered by the DNR:
• $45,745 for snowmaking equipment at Highland Park
• $46,646 for trail grooming equipment at Phalen Park; and
WHEREAS, these projects will establish and maintain dedicated winter trails for cross-country skiing, walking, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking, benefiting an estimated 30,000 annual visitors to Highland and Phalen Parks combined; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Parks and Recreation has secured the required 25% cash match for these grants and has committed to maintaining the purchased equipment and facilities; and
WHEREAS, these improvements align with the City of Saint Paul’s goals of increasing recreational opportunities and promoting community health and wellness;
RESOLVED, that the City Council of Saint Paul hereby authorizes the Department of Parks and Recreation to accept the grant funds totaling $92,391 from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the purposes outlined above.