6.a 2025.09.01 PRC support for the gateway trailDraft Letter of Support for the Gateway Tra i l
Extension
From the Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee to the Scandia
City Council
Dear Honorable Members of the Scandia City Council,
On behalf of the Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee, we are writing to express our
enthusiastic support for the proposed extension of the Gateway Trail from Scandia,
following Oakhill Road. This project represents a pivotal step toward fulfilling our
community's long term vision of a safe, beautiful, and accessible trail system connecting
our city to the greater regional network, including William O'Brien State Park, and
eventually, the Munger Trail.
We are grateful for the funding opportunity presently available, which is essential for
moving forward with this long-term plan. However, we are concerned that the current
requirement to construct a tunnel under Oakhill Road would dramatically increase the
project's cost, potentially placing this once -in -a -generation opportunity out of reach for our
community.
With this in mind, we respectfully request that the City Council advocate on our behalf to
the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and any other relevant authorities,
urging them to waive the tunnel requirement. Instead, we propose a carefully designed,
controlled at -grade crossing for Oakhill Road. With appropriate signage, markings, and
traffic -calming measures, a controlled at -grade crossing can provide a safe and efficient
solution, as seen in successful trail projects throughout the state and region.
This adjustment would substantially lower the financial barriers to completing the trail
extension, ensuring that Scandia can seize this funding opportunity and take a critical step
toward realizing our shared vision. By securing this extension now, we lay the groundwork
for future connections —from the heart of Scandia, through the scenic landscapes of
William O'Brien State Park, and ultimately to the Munger Trail and beyond. Each link in this
chain strengthens the recreational, environmental, and economic health of our city for
generations to come.
We urge the City Council to take a strong position in support of the Gateway Trail extension,
and to formally request the DNR and other authorities consider our proposal for a safe at-
grade crossing, rather than the prohibitively expensive tunnel. This is a moment where
leadership and advocacy can make all the difference for Scandia's future.
Thankyou for your dedication to our community and for your thoughtful consideration of
this important matter. We stand ready to support the City Council in these efforts in any
way we can.
With respect and appreciation,
The Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee