Title
Consider/Discuss/Act on a Recommendation to City Council Authorizing the Application and Acceptance, if Awarded, of a Collin County Parks and Open Space Project Funding Assistance Program for the Gray Branch Trail Project and Other Improvements
Summary
COUNCIL GOAL: Enhance the Quality of Life in McKinney
(5A: Create affordable recreational and cultural arts activities for all ages throughout the city)
(5B: Develop Parks strategy to preserve green space for future park land)
(5C: Continue to market and highlight McKinney as a unique destination for residents and visitors alike)
(5E: Develop sustainable quality of life improvements within the City of McKinney)
MEETING DATE: June 8, 2023
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
CONTACT: Michael Kowski, Director of Parks and Recreation
RECOMMENDED PARK BOARD ACTION:
• Approval of the Recommendation.
ITEM SUMMARY:
• This item authorizes the application for and acceptance of, if awarded, a Collin County Parks and Open Space Funding Assistance Program grant for the Gray Branch trail project and other related improvements.
• The application submission deadline to Collin County is July 10, 2023, with an award announcement in October of this year.
• This project will include land acquisition along Wilson Creek for a 12’ concrete trail undergrade crossing at US380 and Wilson Creek. The trail will connect to the existing hike and bike trails through Auburn Hills and provide a trail through the box culvert at US380 into Gray Branch Park. The concrete trail will terminate at a parking lot that will be designated as a trail head for the Wilson Creek trails.
• Together the undergrade crossing and proposed trail head parking will provide patrons a trail connection to the existing hike and bike trails within Auburn Hills and provide the residents of Auburn Hills pedestrian access to the nature trails within Gray Branch.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• Upon award, the project will be ready to begin negotiations to acquire the needed pedestrian public access easements. Followed by the design of the trail project utilizing a landscape architect from the City’s approved vendor list.
• This project will continue the linear park and trail system along Wilson Creek, the spine of our parks and trails.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• This funding program requires a 50% match from the City. Staff is still evaluating the exact grant request amount, which will be determined when this item goes to Council.