Title
Resolution - A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of a Portion of Property Located at 217 Sycamore Street by the Mansfield Park Facilities Corporation (MPFDC) for Right of Way for Pond Branch Linear Trail in the Amount of $60,000
Requested Action
Approve a Resolution to Purchase a Portion of Property Located at 217 Sycamore Street in the Amount of $60,000 for Right of Way for Pond Branch Linear Trail
Recommendation
Approve Resolution
Description/History
The 2009 Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open Space Master Plan included a spine trail phasing and prioritization plan with the Pond Branch Creek corridor shown on the map. However, it was not delineated as an improved linear trail. The on-street connection with Town Park is shown as segment 12 in the spine trail phasing and prioritization plan and has been submitted as a Transportation Alternatives Program funding request.
With an increased focus on development in the downtown area, staff was directed by the downtown TIRZ sub-committee to explore a feasibility analysis and provide an opinion of costs to develop a connection from Katherine Rose Memorial Park to the east side of the Historic Downtown area along the Pond Branch Creek corridor. This connection would utilize an existing drainage culvert under the Union Pacific Railroad as pedestrian-only access. The trail would then follow the west upper bank of the creek and terminate at Dallas Street.
As development occurs along the creek, the trail will provide additional benefit for outside patio dining areas and connections to other venues in the downtown area with improved pedestrian access. The report proved that the trail option was viable and the committee then directed staff to begin planning, design and land acquisition for the trail in anticipation of future downtown development.
Justification
This private property is in the floodway/floodplain along Pond Branch in downtown Mansfield. The property acquisition is necessary for the progression and development of the Pond Branch Linear Park trail extension from Katherine Rose Memorial Park to Historic Downtown Mansfield. This purchase was approved with a vote of 6-0 at the July 21, 2016 MPFDC board meeting.
Funding Source
MPFDC ½ cent sales tax
Prepared By
Matt Young, Director of Parks and Recreation
Matt.young@mansfieldtexas.gov
817-804-5798