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Mines of Spain Trail State Recreation Trail GrantMasterpiece on the Mississippi Dubuque bierd All-America City 1 2007 TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager SUBJECT: State Recreational Trails Grant Application -- Mines of Spain Trail & Trailhead DATE: June 27, 2012 Planning Services Manager Laura Carstens recommends City Council approval to submit a 2012 State Recreational Trails grant application in the amount of $170,500 to the Iowa Department of Transportation for development of the Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead project, a key component of the planned expansion of the Mines of Spain State Park identified as the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition. Estimated total cost for the Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead project is $227,500. Local match for the $170,500 State grant includes $47,000 from the City's Trails and Complete Streets Projects. This CIP has $50,000 annually available as local match for trail grants. Additional local match of $10,000 is anticipated from private fundraising, including naming opportunities and donations. I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council approval. Michael C. Van Milligen MCVM:jh Attachment cc: Barry Lindahl, City Attorney Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager Teri Goodmann, Assistant City Manager Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Masterpiece on the Mississippi TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager FROM: Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager SUBJECT: State Recreational Trails Grant Application -- Mines of Spain Trail & Trailhead DATE: June 26, 2012 Dubuque All AmericaCIly 2007 Introduction This memo transmits a 2012 State Recreational Trails grant application in the amount of $170,500 to the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) for development of the Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead project, a key component of the planned expansion of the Mines of Spain state park identified as the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition on the enclosed map. Discussion The State Recreational Trails Grant Program provides funds to cities, counties, and non - profits. Grants require a 25% match. Eligible projects include recreational trails and related amenities. The 52 -acre Bottoms property is west of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. The City is working in partnership with the IDNR, the Friends of the Mines of Spain (FOMOS), and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) on acquisition and natural re- development of this land. The IDNR will manage this land as part of the state park. The INHF has acquired the Bottoms property at a cost of $312,000, and the City has a purchase agreement with the INHF. The preliminary project cost for acquisition and development of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition is $526,600. Estimated total cost for the Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead project is $227,500. Local match for the $170,500 State grant includes $47,000 from the City's Trails and Complete Streets Projects CIP #350 -2430. This CIP has $50,000 annually available as local match for trail grants. Additional local match of $10,000 is anticipated from private fundraising, including naming opportunities and donations. The FOMOS has provided a letter of support for the trail project. Applications are due July 2, 2012, so the application will be submitted to IDOT prior to City Council action. The project will be withdrawn if not supported by the City Council. Requested Action The requested action is for the City Council to approve the attached resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign and Planning Services staff to submit the 2012 State Recreational Trails grant application for the Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead project to the IDOT. Attachments cc: Marie Ware, Leisure Services Manager Jenny Larson, Budget Director 1 Prepared by: Laura Carstens, City Planner Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St, Dubuque, IA 52001 Telephone: 589 -4210 Return to: Kevin Firnstahl, City Clerk Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St, Dubuque, IA 52001 Telephone: 589 -4121 RESOLUTION NO. 170 -12 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS GRANT APPLICATION TO IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE MINES OF SPAIN TRAIL AND TRAILHEAD Whereas, the Iowa Department of Transportation has allocated grant funds in the State Recreational Trails Program for the development of recreational trails and related amenities; and Whereas, the City of Dubuque has adopted the 2008 Comprehensive Plan which includes objectives for enhanced accessibility for parks, trails, and open space, protection of scenic and cultural resources, and development of additional recreational trails. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA: Section 1. The Mayor hereby is authorized to sign and the Planning Services Manager is hereby authorized to submit an application to the Iowa Department of Transportation for a State Recreational Trails grant for the Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead project. Section 2. That in the event said application is approved, the City Council hereby provides its written assurance that the completed project will be adequately maintained for its intended use in accordance with state requirements. Passed, approved and adopted this 9- day of ,) ""'' 2012. F: \USERS \LCARSTEN \WP\Mines of Spain \IA SRT Grant \FY12 SRT Grant Resolution MOS Trail.doc Form 240002wd 09 -09 General Information Iowa Department of Transportation PROJECT APPLICATION IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM Applicant Agency: City of Dubuque e-Mail: Icarstengcityof duhuque.org Contact Person (Name & Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Title): Complete Mailing Address: Planning Services Department, 50 W. 13Y6 Street Street Address and /or Box No. Dubuque Iowa 52001 563 -589 -4210 City State Zip Daytime Phone If more than one agency or organization is involved in this project, please state the name, contact person, mailing address, and telephone number of the second agency. (Attach an additional page if more than two agencies are involved.) Applicant Agency: Iowa Department of Natural Resources e -Mail: Wayne.Buchholtz@ dnr.iowa.gov Contact Person (Name & Title): Wayne Buchholtz, Park Ranger Complete Mailing Address: Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, 8991 Bellevue Heights Road Street Address and /or Box No Dubuque Iowa 52003 563 -556 -0620 City State Zip Daytime Phone Project Information Project Title: Mines of Spain Trail & Trailhead Project Description (including length): This 0.5 mile paved 10 -loot wide trail will provide ADA - compliant access to the B.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition, a 52 -acre expansion of the Center's environs in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Arca. The project also includes a trailhead with ADA- compliant parking for convenient year -round access to the trail. The trail is a key component of the site master plan for the G.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition, as the state park currently doesn't have accessible bike /hike trails. This project is part of the site master plan developed with public and stakeholder input. Economic Impact Information Type of Project: ❑ Acquisition — Number of Acres ® Development ❑ Combination — Number of Acres Exhibit A -1 Type of Proposal: ® Grant ❑ Loan ❑ Combination If this application is for a loan or a combination loan /grant, please state the proposed repayment terms. Include amount of principal to be repaid, proposed interest rate, length of repayment, etc. Project Costs (An itemized breakdown must be included on an attached sheet): 2. 3. Total Cost Trails Fund Applicant Match (25% Minimum) $ 227,500 $ 170,500 $ 57,000 Match Source (s) Amount Assured or Anticipated (Date Anticipated) City of Dubuque $47,000.00 Assured Fundraising /Naming Opportunities $10,000.00 Anticipated Are any other state funds involved in this project? Yes ❑ No If yes, please explain the source and conditions The City was awarded a $200,000 Resource and Enhancement Protection (REAP) grant from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) toward the $312,000 re- purchase price of the 52 -acre property acquired by the Iowa Natural Ileritage Foundation (INIIF). The IDNI2 provided $25,000 in -kind for the site piaster plan. Are any federal funds involved in this project? ® Yes ❑ No If yes, please explain the source and conditions The City has been awarded a $175,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant by the IDNR, subject to allocation and authorization of LWCF funding by the National Park Service, for development of recreation amenities like the overlook/outdoor classroom, youth camp arca, restrooms, and wildlife plantings. Estimated Project Development Schedule: Design Start Date December 1, 2012 Completion Date February 1, 2013 Land Acquisition Start Date August 1, 2011 Completion Date August 31, 2011 Construction Start Date April 1, 2013 Completion Date October 1, 2013 Has any part of this trail project been started? ® Yes ❑ No If yes, explain The INHF acquired the 52 -acre property in August 2011. The City signed a purchase agreement with the INI IF and was awarded a REAP grant for acquisition in August 2011. The IDNR conducted a master planning process and public survey in February -April 2012. The INHF and the Friends of the Mines of Spain (FOMOS) initiated private fundraising in 2012. Do you intend to charge a fee to trail users? ❑ Yes ® No If yes, how much? $ What will it be used for? Exhibit A -2 Required Documentation and Narrative Information The following documents and narratives must be attached to this application. In the upper right -hand corner of each document or narrative write the corresponding letter shown below. ® A. A NARRATIVE assessing existing conditions, outlining the concept of the proposed project, and providing adequate project justification. The narrative must show that the concept is reasonable from a transportation engineering and /or recreational standpoint and is part of an area -wide, local, regional, or statewide plan. ® B. A MAP identifying the location of the project — An optional mapping application tool is available for your use at the following website address: www.sysplan. dot. state .ia.us /fedstate_rectrails.htm ® C. ® D. ® E. ® F. A CROSS - SECTION of the proposed1trail project. A SKETCH -PLAN of the trail project. An ITEMIZED BREAKDOWN of the total project costs. A TIME SCHEDULE for the total project development. ® G. An OFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT of the trail proposal from the authority to be responsible for the maintenance and operation. The authority must provide written assurance that it will adequately maintain the trail for its intended use and maintain the total trail used to justify the project in public use for a minimum of 20 years following project completion. ® H. A NARRATIVE discussing the extent to which adjacent property owners have been informed of the proposed project and an assessment of their acceptance. ® 1. Completed Minority Impact Statement attached to application The award of State Recreational Trails funds; any subsequent funding or letting of contracts for design, construction, reconstruction, improvement, or maintenance; and the furnishing of materials for this project shall not involve direct or indirect interest of any state, county, or city official, elective or appointive. All of the above are prohibited by Iowa Code Sections.314.2, 362.5, or 331.342. Any award of funding or any letting of a contract in violation of the foregoing provisions shall invalidate the award of State Recreational Trails funding and authorize a complete recovery of any funds previously disbursed. Certification To the best of my knowledge and belief, all information included in this application is true and accurate, including the commitment of all physical and financial resources. This application has been duly authorized by the participating local authority. 1 understand the attached OFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT(S) binds the participating local governments to assume responsibility for adequate maintenance of any new or improved trails. I understand that, although this information is sufficient to secure a commitment of funds, an executed contract between the applicant and the Department is required prior to the authorization of funds. Representing the City of Dubuque, Iowa July 2, 2012 Signature Date Ric W. Jones, Mayor Pro —Tem Rtry-137-BrvirMayor July 2, 2012 Typed Name and Title Date Exhibit A -3 PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM A. NARRATIVE: Add sheets as needed. Project Location: The project site is a 52 -acre farmstead comprised of three parcels located at 9097 Bellevue Heights Road in Dubuque County on the south side of the city of Dubuque. The farm property abuts the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area on the north. The project site also abuts the 30 -acre area that encompasses site of the newly - expanded E.13. Lyons Interpretive Center on the east. The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area consists of 1,387 acres of forest and prairie along the Mississippi River. The B.B. Lyons Interpretive Center serves as a visitor information center and park office for the Mines of Spain, with access off Bellevue Heights Road. The park is generally bounded by the Mississippi River on the east, Catfish Creek on the north, Old Massey Road and Bellevue Heights Road and U.S. Highway 52 on the south, and Granger Creek and U.S. Highway 61/151 on the west. The property is highlighted on the attached overall map of the Mines of Spain. _ Project Scope: At the heart of the Mines of Spain is the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center which opened in 1976, and was doubled in size in 2010. This unique structure was architecturally designed to blend into the natural setting of wooded prairie and bluffland. Most important, it has served as a focal point for environmental and cultural educational programs and interpretive activities at the Mines of Spain for over 30 years. Current annual visitation level at the Mines of Spain and E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center is approximately 250,000. The 52 -acre Bottoms property lies west of and directly adjoining the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. It was acquired at auction in August 2011 by the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation UNITE). The City is working in partnership with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the Friends of the Mines of Spain (FOMOS), and the INHF on acquisition and appropriate development of this land for interpretation and wildlife habitat. The City of Dubuque will retain ownership of the site once it is purchased from the INHF. The IDNR will manage this land as part of the state park. The Bottoms property includes a vacant and abandoned farmstead with several buildings, including a house, garage, barns, and outbuildings which must be removed from the property due to their poor condition and a well that has been capped per Dubuque County orders and State health codes. Asbestos present in the garage roofing, and in the siding and linoleum of the house has been abated. The property enjoys scenic views. There are no known historic properties on the site, and a Section 106 is underway. A powerline easement and an access easement traverse the southwest portion of the property. We are expanding the land area adjacent to the E.13. Lyons interpretive Center to include more outdoor space for interpretive and educational purposes. With land expansion, many more visitors would be served and new programs implemented. The acquisition and development of this land will serve as the outdoor classroom for the Interpretive Center, offering hands -on learning about the environment, habitats, culture and wildlife that are a part of the region. Proposed improvements shown on the attached site master plan include: improved visibility of the existing entrance to the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center and additional visitor parking; new restrooms and shelters; an ADA accessible trail from the Interpretive Center to new overlook /outdoor classroom in the Interpretive Area Addition; youth group camp ground area information /orientation kiosk; tall grass and short grass prairies; trees and shrubs; wildlife buffer plantings; bio- retention cell; and Prairie Trailhead with ADA - compliant parking. The plan for future management of the entire area is to leave any archeological sites undisturbed, unless the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) authorizes development. The park plans to record GPS (Global Positioning System) readings of all archeological sites and record on a spreadsheet the historical slates that pertain to each. The objectives of re- establishing vegetation on cropland are to reduce erosion, create wildlife habitat and reconstruct examples of original native vegetation, such as native prairie. Public participation was an important consideration in the formulation of the project proposal. Community support for and input during project conception was received through a public survey and an open house at the Interpretive Center as part of the IDNR -led master plan process for the project. In the survey, 77% of the respondents supported the goal of "establish strong connections between the addition and the Interpretive Center Area ". The Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead project is a tangible and direct means of implementing what 3/4 of the survey respondents want to see at the site. (Iowa Department of Transportation "e Form 105101 (03 -09) MINORITY IMPACT STATEMENT Pursuant to 2008 Iowa Acts, HF 2393, Iowa Code Section 8.11, all grant applications submitted to the state of Iowa that are due beginning January 1, 2009 shall include a Minority Impact Statement. This is the state's mechanism for requiring grant applicants to consider the potential impact of the grant project's proposed programs or policies on minority groups. Please choose the statement(s) that pertains to this grant application. Complete all the information requested for the chosen statement(s). Submit additional pages as necessary. ® The proposed grant project programs or policies could have a disproportionate or unique positive impact on minority persons. Describe the positive impact expected from this project. An important component of the site master plan is creation of an accessible bike /hike trail for the Mines of Spain. Due to its rugged terrain, environmentally sensitive habitats, and abundant archeological areas, the trails in the state park are unpaved, include stairs, and are walking trails only. Bicyclists can access the park only on the park roads used by vehicles. Persons with disabilities are limited in their park access due to steep grades, lack of pavement and steps. This project will provide ADA- compliant parking and trail access for all park users. Indicate which group is impacted: ❑ Women ® Persons with a disability ❑ Blacks ❑ Latinos ❑ Asians ❑ Pacific Islanders ❑ American Indians ❑ Alaskan Native Americans ❑ Other ❑ The proposed grant project programs or policies could have a disproportionate or unique negative impact on minority persons. Describe the negative impact expected from this project. Present the rationale for the existence of the proposed program or policy. Provide evidence of consultation with representatives of the minority groups impacted. Indicate which group is impacted' ❑ Women ❑ Persons with a disability ❑ Blacks ❑ Latinos ❑ Asians ❑ Pacific Islanders ❑ American Indians ❑ Alaskan Native Americans ❑ Other ❑ The proposed grant project programs or policies are not expected to have a disproportionate or unique impact on minority persons. Present the rationale for determining no impact. I hereby certify that the information on this form is complete and accurate, to the best of my knowledge: Name: Laura Carstens Title: Planning Services Manager Definitions "Minority Persons," as defined in Iowa Code Section 8.11, means individuals who are women, persons with a disability, Blacks, Latinos, Asians or Pacific Islanders, American Indians, and Alaskan Native Americans. "Disability," as defined in Iowa Code Section 15.102, subsection 7, paragraph "b," subparagraph (1): b. As used in this subsection: (1) 'Disability" means, with respect to an individual, a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of the individual, a record of physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of the individual, or being regarded as an individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of the individual. 'Disability" does not include any of the following: (a) Homosexuality or bisexuality. (b) Transvestism, transsexualism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, gender identity disorders not resulting from physical impairments or other sexual behavior disorders. (c) Compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania. (d) Psychoactive substance abuse disorders resulting from current illegal use of drugs. "State Agency," as defined in Iowa Code Section 8.11, means a department, board, bureau, commission, or other agency or authority of the state of Iowa. PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM Evaluation and Approval The Department shall evaluate each complete application primarily on the basis of whether the predicted use of the trail justifies the construction and maintenance costs including, but not limited to, the following criteria: 1. Define need, in terms of the population to be served and existing trails in the area (25 points). The Statewide Recreation Trails Usage Study lists elements that contribute most to the trail user's enjoyment as: the trail traverses a variety of landscapes; the presence of water; the trail corridor is separate from the roadway; and historical markers are present. The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center, and the Mines of Spain Trail fall into these categories. Trails in the area include the Mississippi River Trail, which follows the Mines of Spain Road through the state park, the Great River Road Scenic Byway, and City and County trail systems. The walking trails in the state park are designated as National Recreational Trails. Due to its rugged terrain and archeological resources, the park's trails are unpaved and include stairs, so they are walking trails only. Bicyclists can use the park only on the access roads shared with vehicles. Persons with disabilities are limited in their access to the park as well due to steep grades. The Mines of Spain Trail will be the accessible link for persons of all ages and abilities to bike and hike along a safe, scenic pathway where history, culture and natural resources can be enjoyed and interpreted. This project provides a great solution to this lack of access for park users to connect with park resources, and also adds to Dubuque's reputation as a tourist destination for both the State of Iowa and the community. The E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center currently serves over 250,000 visitors annually and provides hundreds of programs for school aged children, youth groups and families. Colleges in the Dubuque area such as University of Dubuque, Loras College, Clarke University, Northeast Iowa Community College, and University of Wisconsin - Platteville utilize the Center for their students. Deuand has continued to increase over the years for more programs and services. Burgeoning interest in the rich history of the area and growing awareness of the significance of the Mississippi River and its watershed has created greater demands on the Center. With the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition, we envision an increase of interpretive programs, and an increase in visitation. The outcome will be to provide a place for expanded education, increased experiences for the visitor and more outdoor facilities. We will foster heritage tourism to attract more visitors to the community and arca residents and to the park with an accessible off -road trail open free of charge all year. The project will enable individuals, school groups, tour groups, and people of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds to enjoy and explore the park's prehistoric, historic, cultural and natural features while instilling appreciation for preservation of these historic and archeological resources and cultural assets. IDNR Park staff also works with youth through the Four Oaks Treatment Center and the Juvenile Courts System, Multicultural Family Center, and Boy Scouts of America in Dubuque. The programs have the youth work on savanna and prairie restorations and restoration projects involving archeological sites including farm sites. This trail project will offer additional youth opportunities. 2. Describe the compatibility with local, area -wide, regional, or statewide plans (15 points). The Mines of Spain Accessible Bike /I like Trail is consistent with the following regional, state, county and local plans. The Dubuque County 5 -Year REAP Plan states that "it is the goal of the City of Dubuque's Leisure Services Department to develop...a safe, clean, functional and attractive system of parks and recreational facilities to meet the passive and active leisure needs of all residents and visitors ". The Mines of Spain Trail will help achieve these goals by creating an accessible off -road trail in an important historic and natural landmark -- the Mines of Spain -- a plus for residents of local communities as well as visitors. Iowa Open Spaces Program: The Mines of Spain Bike /Hike Trail addresses the overall goals of this Program to "educate the citizens of the state about the needs and urgency of protecting the state's open spaces, plan for the protection of the state's significant open space areas, and acquire and protect those properties on a priority basis through a variety of appropriate paeans ". The Mines of Spain 'frail will offer a safe, accessible route with links to an overlook /outdoor classroom and interpretive center. Iowa Statewide Comprehensive Recreation Plan (SCORP): The Mines of Spain Bike/Hike Trail is closely tied to many of the priorities and issues of the SCORP. The SCORP comments that the three most important values for quality trail experience are: health and fitness, aesthetic beauty, and natural area preservation of open space. The Mines of Spain Trail will provide ready opportunities for health, fitness, aesthetics, and appreciation of open space. According to the Statewide Trails Vision, the ultimate goal is to "connect communities, parks, natutal resources, shopping, employment and other amenities with a comprehensive, multi- modal, easily accessible trails system ". The Mines of Spain Hike Trail project will create an accessible and unique bike /hike trail for the Mines of Spain. Due to its rugged terrain and archeological resources, the trails in the state park are walking trails only. Bicyclists are limited the access roads shared with vehicles. Persons with disabilities arc restricted in their access to the park due to steep grades and steps. This project offers an improved access for park users to connect with park resources through a paved ADA- compliant trail and trailhead. The Mines of Spain Trail supports goals in the City's Comprehensive Plan to make bike /hike trails, and parks and open space easily accessible. The Mines of Spain Trail supports regional goals of the Tri -State Trail Plan to create an integrated trail system to encourage recreation, heritage tourism, and environmental education; and to develop safe paved trails with restrooms. PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM 3. Define the benefits of multiple uses and recreational opportunities (20 points). We look to create partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies such as the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County, IDNR, National Park Service, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area, and Dubuque Soil & Water Conservation District, and institutions and special interest groups like the POMOS, Sierra Club, Audubon Society, local and regional museums, local and regional school systems, area colleges and tri -state universities to promote multiple uses and outdoor recreational opportunities. The E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition will serve as the outdoor classroom for the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center, offering hands -on learning about the environment, habitats, culture and wildlife that are a part of the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and the Upper Mississippi River Region. This expanded outdoor area will offer visitors the opportunity to continue to interact with nature. The Mines of Spain Trail will provide a convenient, accessible avenue to reach the outdoor classroom. The E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition will create more outdoor space for interpretation and education that is readily accessible from the Interpretive Center via the Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead. Our project objectives are: 1. Re- evaluate existing Mines of Spain master plan for goals, objectives, issues, and considerations that have changed since 1991 2. Preserve the outstanding scenic qualities from intrusive development 3. Expand and enhance the interpretive opportunities adjacent to Interpretive Center to include: • Develop additional trails — emphasize full accessibility • Replace row crops with prairie and /or woodland to provide closer interpretive opportunities • Re- establish prairie, savanna & woodland to allow Center -based programs that don't require vehicular transportation • Provide interpretive opportunities through kiosks, interpretive signs, and hands -on learning 4. Improve water quality in Catfish and Granger Creeks when row crops are replaced with permanent vegetation 5. Improve and enhance Interpretive Center entrance for better visibility 6. Relocate and construct a new park maintenance facility 7. Increase Interpretive Center parking in previous park shop location 8. Provide appropriate recreation opportunities compatible with the natural and cultural resources 9.Expand opportunities for youth -based activities, such as a youth camping area 4. Define the quality of the site (25 points). The Mines of Spain State Recreation Area includes woodlands, prairie, and blufflands that overlook the Mississippi River along a 3 -mile shoreline. This National Historic Landmark preserves rare riverfont habi tat and also contains thousands of years of human history dating from the early Mississippian period through the early 20th century. Walking trails connect visitors to a farm site, forests, prairies, archeological sites, and wetlands. The E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center and 30 acres of surrounding land is connected to the Mines of Spain park land via some of these trails, but not by road. The 52 -acre Bottoms property enjoys scenic views, and is accessible from Iowa's Great River Road Scenic Byway. The Mines of Spain includes a variety of interesting land forms, plant species and communities, animals and water types. A portion of the project site is rugged, wooded bluftland. The site master plan for the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition strives to enhance a regional destination where visitors and residents can reconnect with nature by experiencing the natural, cultural and ecological aspects of the environment through interactive learning that augments and supplements the indoor learning opportunities of the Interpretive Center to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Our goals for multiple uses and recreational opportunites with this bike /hike trail project are: • Create an atmosphere that promotes learning through natural areas and scenic vistas accessible by bike /hike trail. • Create a space where environmental and educational groups can gather, meet and learn. • Enhance the indoor laboratory and classroom experience by providing school children and college students with a hands -on learning experience in an outdoor classroom in a natural setting accessible by a paved ADA- compliant bike /hike trail. • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect through accessible trailhead parking and trails. • Build on the experience at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center by connecting the natural (outdoors) and interactive (indoors) learning opportunities with ADA- compliant trailhead parking and trail. • Provide positive experiences for visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy the historic, cultural and natural resources of the park. • I Ieighten awareness of conservation and the environment through greater accessiblity to the park with a bike /hike trail. • Increase group business, especially from regional and national environmental groups, with paved off -road bike /hike trails. PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA POINT SYSTEM IOWA STATE RECREATIONAL TRAILS PROGRAM 5. Describe the economic benefits to the local area (10 points). The 1,387 -acre Mines of Spain State Recreation Area has served as a focal point for environmental and cultural educational programs and interpretive activities for the tri -state area of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin for many years. Burgeoning interest in the rich history of the tri-statc area and growing awareness of the significance of the Mississippi River and its watershed has created greater demands for outdoor programming. Current annual visitation level at the Mines of Spain and E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center is approximately 250,000. The Mines of Spain Trail and 'i railhead project is a key accessibility component of the E.I3. Lyons Interpretive Center Addition. The trail / trailhead project will link outdoor classroom space for interpretation and education that is universally accessible with the Interpretive Center and other outdoor recreational amenities. This project fulfills goals in the 2006 Iowa Great River Road Corridor Management Plan. It will increase the identification and protection of the resources along the Great River Road; it will expand local citizen awareness of the resources and importance of the Great River Road; and it will provide new travel experiences through effective interpretation and promotion of the Great River Road - by encouraging exploration and interpretation of the statewide natural resources. The Mines of Spain Trail and Trailhead will offer more space for educational purposes while protecting natural resources and scenic viewsheds. With the trail project, we envision an increase of interpretive programs, an increase in visitation, and an increase in partnerships with other organizations that are interested in the future of the tri -state area's historical, archeological, and natural resources. The outcome will be to provide a place for expanded education, a greater variety of experiences for the visitor and a focus on environmental stewardship and sustainability. The project will enhance heritage tourism in the community and help preserve its historic resources and cultural assets. With the trail project, we envision an increase of interpretive programs, and an increase in visitation to the community, the state park and Interpretive Center, and the Great River Road. This trail project will provide more opportunities to share information on nationally significant historic, cultural and natural features which abound at the Mines of Spain as well as along the Great River Road. The Mines of Spain serves as the eco- tourism center for hands on learning about the environment, habitats, culture and wildlife that is a part of the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The trail project will enhance the state park as a regional destination where visitors and residents can reconnect with the natural, cultural and ecological aspects of the environment through interactive learning along the trail and at the outdoor classroom made accessible by the trail. The project will provide indirect job creation based on national studies of where job seekers want to live and the amenities they want to enjoy. 6. Describe special facilities for disabled users (5 points). The 52 -acre acquisition offers interpretive opportunities that would he universally accessible and close to the Interpretive Center; the ability to experience a dramatic 360 - degree view of the Catfish Creek, Granger Creek, and Mississippi River valleys, and of Illinois and Wisconsin within the vista and scenery; development of an area for youth group camping. and provision of additional parking close to the Interpretive Center that is badly needed. Rugged and complex topography adds to highly scenic character of the project site. Scenic quality is an extremely valuable natural asset. While somewhat difficult to qualify, visual resources are a source of attraction and can be the essence of satisfaction for many park visitors. Yet to the visitor with physical disabilites, they are remote and inaccessible. The Mines of Spain Hike Trail and Trailhead project will create an accessible and unique bike /hike trail for visitors to the Mines of Spain. Due to its rugged terrain, environmentally sensitive habitats, and abundant archeological resources, the trails in the state park are walking trails only. Bicyclists are limited the park access roads used by vehicles. Persons with disabilities are restricted in their access to the park due to steep grades and steps. This project offers a remedy to the physical disconnect for users with disabilities. The Mines of Spain Trail will create an improved access for park users of all ages and abilities to connect with park resources through a paved ADA- compliant trail and trailhead. Proposed improvements include: improved visibility of the existing entrance to the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center and additional visitor parking; new restrooms and shelters; an ADA accessible trail from the Interpretive Center to new overlook/outdoor classroom in the Interpretive Area Addition; youth group camp ground arca; information /orientation kiosk; tall grass and short grass prairies; trees and shrubs; wildlife buffer plantings; bio- retention cell; and Prairie Trailhead. The planned improvements include the use of universal design to ensure that the F.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition provides interpretation and education opportunites accessible to persons with disabilites to the extent feasible. The facilities will be open to the public free of charge. Julien DubuqUe."----..... . / kiA, Monument Catfish Creek . Canoe Access r • • , • - 1.. ,Horseshoe Bluff E.B. Lyons Int :1- j Interpretive Center I "-■ • , .. .... . - -... .- --z,........ .0(;) ll'71S. ",- ..Ci..% ---:-,... - - ----... Creek • „..4,r,,,t..,.1.1),..:, ,. il Mines o -,,,-, . ■ -- i „., . . .,-..i,,.. ....",'•....,1 -,-_,V::,,A, --.,. 771., ' if ,...,.• ..• -fr-. - : /. r . '---7'--....,...-rk. .....„.v..- --..„....- .-',- - • ';', ZO:,,... '1 -.4. '1. J•••,... - ' • -..'.--.:'1 '-'t.r?4:.' --.4■!-:.,.. -., ' . _ . ... . r . . 4._ ---.311,' ---L.:'..$41,1 :,. .r..1 i ..,-(v. 1. . - • . e -,- --',...._. ..'-'1 --.... 43 r I _.. - • . /..-7- --- '*, . — \- r' Cattesse.Creek- -'7--./ - • - -.. - - ...1 ---t . - :- Mines of Spain State Recreation Area j P February 2012 Mines of Spain State Recreation Area E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition Mississippi River EXISTING ROAD EXISTING HIKING TRAIL (UNPAVED) ADA ACCESSIBLE TRAIL EXISTING SKI TRAIL PARKING PICNIC AREA FPI E.B. Lyons 1.1.1 Interpretive Center * SCENIC VIEWS _J Cittesse- Hollow 4,-11 Access 7 ..i.tA',":"ZaL 0' 600' 1200' 2400' RESTROOMS Shelter Julien Dubuque Trail as Miles Nature Center Trail t.3mi/es Catfish Trail 1.75 Miles Meskwaki Trail 7 Mile Riprow Valley Calcite Trail 2 Mile Loop Horseshoe Bluff Nature Trail 2 Miles Observation Blind Wetland Trail & Observation Deck Sauk & Fax Trail South Entrance Cemetery Prairie Ridge Ski Trail 3 Miles Cedar Ridge Ski Trail 3 Miles Cattesse Trail 1 Mile Eagle Scout Trail 6 Miles • -is X • .;E Overlook/ Outdoor Classroom ADA Accessible Trail • •.z, ** Prairie Wiz To Existing Meskwaki Trail • ----27 Mines of Spain '1 1 Youth Group Camp A • . Information/Orientation Kiosk Prairie Trailhead Park Service Building 7..7 Biorentention Cell Existing E.B. Lyons . Intrepretive Center Existing Historic - Wine Cellar Existing HiSiOrid Pine Chapel Existing Historic Root Cellar Parking Expansion Entrance &Visibility Improvements EB Lyons Interpretive Area Addition- Proposed Improvements February 2012 E. B. Lyons Interpretive Area Addition E.B. Lyons Interpretive Area Boundary 0' 150' 300' 600' Mi ,Spaan THE CITY OP Du Moierpirce on the Mksissippi Produced By: Rpg • Iowa tural 1 ler' lagr loundalion k Minn >Spain Laura Carstens Planning Services Manager City of Dubuque 50 W. 13th Street Dubuque IA 52001 Dear Laura, FRIENDS of the MINES of SPAIN 8991 Bellevue Hts. Dubuque, IA 52003 -9214 (563) 556 -0620 June 25, 2012 wwwominesof spainoorg Please accept this letter of support from the Friends of the Mines of Spain (FOMOS) for the City of Dubuque's State Recreational Trail Fund grant application for the accessible bike/hike trail at the E.S. Lyons Interpretive Center Addition in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. The FOMOS has been working with the City of Dubuque, the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF), and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to expand the land area of the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center by acquiring an adjacent 52 -acre property. The IDNR led a master plan process for the property with a multi- disciplinary planning task force of IDNR, City, INHF, and FOMOS representatives. With extensive public input, we developed a plan for the future management and appropriate development of this additional land, to preserve its natural and cultural resources, as well as expand and enhance the programs and recreational offerings of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center and the Mines of Spain. An important component of the master plan is the creation of an accessible bike/hike trail for the Mines of Spain. Due to its terrain, sensitive habitats, and rich archeological resources, the trails in the state park are unpaved and include stairs, so they are walking trails only. Bicyclists can use the park only on the access roads shared with vehicles. Persons with disabilities are limited in their access to the park as well due to steep grades. This grant application would provide a great solution to this lack of access for park users. Sincerely, ,104D Douglas G. Olk, President Friends of the Mines of Spain