Recent Emails and Letters of Support for the Gateway Trail 12 05 25 through 12 09 251
Kyle Morell
From:Kelly Knaus <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 7:40 AM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell;
info@parksandtrails.org; mail
Subject:Support the Scandia Trail
Attachments:Video.mov
Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
Thank you for your Ɵme. I’m emailing you today because I can’t make it to the Gateway Trail meeƟng on Tuesday. I had
planned on speaking, so I kindly ask you read what I wish I could be in aƩendance to say.
When biking, you ride with traffic and hope the car coming up behind you sees you and gives you space. The dump-truck
vs. mailbox video I shared with you in July (aƩached) shows why a safe place to walk or bike is welcomed by many
residents in Scandia.
The Scandia segment of the trail will be used frequently by those of us who live here.
I have walked, run, and biked the same Scandia roads by my house thousands of Ɵmes, and I never get Ɵred of repeaƟng
the same routes day aŌer day. I do get Ɵred of speeding cars, distracted drivers, and the close calls.
This Trail Will Give:
Our local kids a safe place to ride their bikes Give all residents a car-free place to walk, run, bike skate. Provide an easy
nearby bike route to O’Brien or to Marine.
Some don’t support recreaƟonal assets like the pickleball courts. You’ll never make everyone happy. But many residents
know that parks, trails, pickleball courts, baseball fields, and ice rinks bring people together and make a community
stronger.
I ask you to support this trail, and to support it for us—for Scandia residents. This project has been well planned and
designed to be a safe, car-free paved path. It will be a great benefit to our community.
Thank you,
Kelly Knaus
Scandia Resident
14XXX Old Marine Trail
1
Kyle Morell
From:jean <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 7:34 AM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell
Subject:Support the Gateway State Trail extension into Scandia
Dear Scandia City Council Members,
I am wriƟng to voice my strong support for the Gateway State Trail extension from William O’Brien State Park to Scandia.
This project will significantly enhance the quality of life for Scandia residents and provide lasƟng benefits for park and
trail users across Minnesota.
As a bicyclist, hiker, and outdoor recreaƟon enthusiast, I look forward to using this trail once it is completed. Safe,
accessible connecƟons between state parks and nearby communiƟes create opportuniƟes for people to experience the
character of small towns like Scandia. When visitors like me bike into town, we also support local businesses—bringing
economic acƟvity along with our appreciaƟon for the community.
Importantly, this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribuƟon from the City of Scandia. Declining this
opportunity would mean passing up a chance to strengthen the city’s recreaƟonal assets and enhance the experience of
both residents and visitors.
I respecƞully urge you to support this trail extension and advance construcƟon as planned.
Thank you for your Ɵme and consideraƟon.
Sincerely,
jean greenwood
1
Kyle Morell
From:David Henning <
Sent:Saturday, December 6, 2025 8:35 PM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell
Subject:Support the Gateway State Trail extension into Scandia
Dear Scandia City Council Members,
I am wriƟng to voice my strong support for the Gateway State Trail extension from William O’Brien State Park to Scandia.
This project will significantly enhance the quality of life for Scandia residents and provide lasƟng benefits for park and
trail users across Minnesota.
As a bicyclist, hiker, and outdoor recreaƟon enthusiast, I look forward to using this trail once it is completed. Safe,
accessible connecƟons between state parks and nearby communiƟes create opportuniƟes for people to experience the
character of small towns like Scandia. When visitors like me bike into town, we also support local businesses—bringing
economic acƟvity along with our appreciaƟon for the community.
Importantly, this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribuƟon from the City of Scandia. Declining this
opportunity would mean passing up a chance to strengthen the city’s recreaƟonal assets and enhance the experience of
both residents and visitors.
I respecƞully urge you to support this trail extension and advance construcƟon as planned.
Thank you for your Ɵme and consideraƟon.
Sincerely,
1
Kyle Morell
From:Dan Winga <
Sent:Saturday, December 6, 2025 3:53 PM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Support for Gateway Trail Scandia Extension
Hello, Council Member Morell.
I am wriƟng you today asking that during upcoming Scandia city council meeƟngs you will vote in support of the planned
Gateway Trail Scandia Extension.
AŌer years of extensive study by city, state and local professionals, combined with a defined funding stream to support
construcƟon and upkeep, its exciƟng to be at the stage where all of that hard work will come to fruiƟon! The Gateway
Trail is truly a gem of the north east metro and this expansion has been dream of trail users for over ten years. I fear that
any delays to this project at this point will doom the possibility of any future expansion and funding.
Again, please consider supporƟng this wonderful opportunity to build an exciƟng expansion of the trail that has broad
community support, is funded and will show off the wonderful Scandia community to all the users of the trail.
Thank you for your consideraƟon,
Dan Winga
White Bear Lake resident
Gateway - Brown’s Creek Trail AssociaƟon Member
1
Kyle Morell
From:randall claryr <
Sent:Saturday, December 6, 2025 11:11 AM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Bike Trail Vote
Hi Kyle,
I have researched the issues regarding the planned construction for the Gateway Trail extension in Scandia and would
like to briefly share my thoughts with you. Let me first declare my interests: I currently ride the back roads of Scandia
every summer for recreation. Over my lifetime, I have had at least two friends badly injured and one killed from car
accidents while riding their bikes on similar back roads. As a result, I never feel completely safe riding on roads. The
Gateway Trail is a game-changer for people like me.
I realize that there may be some inconvenience to residents on Oak Hill during the tunnel construction. I also realize that
the tunnel could help these same residents later by keeping bicycle traffic off of Oak Hill. The bottom line is this: 1) In
order to fund this project the tunnel must happen. 2) The economic upside to Scandia businesses from this project could
be significant. 3)The longterm safety to bicyclists is a real issue.
I would appreciate your vote to pass the measure.
Thank you,
Randy Clary, Scandia MN
1
Kyle Morell
From:
Sent:Saturday, December 6, 2025 7:18 AM
To:s.kronmiller; Kyle Morell
Subject:Gateway State Trail Scandia Extension Proposal
Steve and Kyle, good morning. I hope you and Scandia are doing well.
The purpose of my email is to share support of the Gateway State Trail Scandia Extension proposal.
My family and I believe this will be good for Scandia and the surrounding community.
Thanks very much for your continued leadership.
Best,
Tom and Laura Swain
1
Kyle Morell
From:Kerri Kolstad <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 5:40 PM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell
Cc:GBCTAMembership Director; Kerri Kolstad
Subject:Please Support the Gateway Trail into Scandia
Hello Scandia City Council Members,
As a local business owner and board member at the Gateway Brown's Creek Trail Association, I would
appreciate your support for the Gateway State Trail extension from William O’Brien State Park to
Scandia. This project will significantly enhance the quality of life for Scandia residents and businesses.
As owner of Wahoo! Adventures (White Bear Lake) and member of Scandia Parks and Trails (friend of
Janie O'Connor (Cycle Scandia) and Rich (Friends of Scandia Parks & Trails) we have brought over 100
cyclists to Scandia, visited and toured Gammelgarden, Crabtrees, the Scandia Cafe, and utilized your
rural bicycle routes. I even participated in the Scandia Lion's Fat Cat Triathlon and was FASTEST CAT
once!
So, I know the "If you build it, they will come" philosophy! Once these rural trails were built, I noticed
cyclists grow in the area, and even the Ironman Bike Ride found its way to Scandia - the community
center was packed to rave reviews.
This project is fully funded and requires no financial contribution from the City of Scandia. Just like the
Gitchi Gami Trail in Duluth, it has to be built baby-step by baby-step, but our grandchildren will get to
enjoy! It is a legacy we can leave for generations and even help them learn some Swedish heritage along
the way.
Thank you for your reading!
Kerri Kolstad
Wahoo! Adventures
Kerri Kolstad
Founder
Wahoo! Adventures
651.280.7299
1
Kyle Morell
From:Craig Parsons <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 4:08 PM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell
Subject:Support the Gateway State Trail extension into Scandia
Dear Scandia City Council Members,
I am writing to voice my strong support for the Gateway State Trail extension from William O’Brien State
Park to Scandia. This project will significantly enhance the quality of life for Scandia residents and
provide lasting benefits for park and trail users across Minnesota.
As a bicyclist, hiker, and outdoor recreation enthusiast, I look forward to using this trail once it is
completed. Safe, accessible connections between state parks and nearby communities create
opportunities for people to experience the character of small towns like Scandia. When visitors like me
bike into town, we also support local businesses—bringing economic activity along with our appreciation
for the community.
Importantly, this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribution from the City of Scandia.
Declining this opportunity would mean passing up a chance to strengthen the city’s recreational assets
and enhance the experience of both residents and visitors.
I respectfully urge you to support this trail extension and advance construction as planned.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
1
Kyle Morell
From:suzanne sisson <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 3:40 PM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell
Subject:Support the Gateway State Trail extension into Scandia
Dear Scandia City Council Members,
I am wriƟng to voice my strong support for the Gateway State Trail extension from William O’Brien State Park to Scandia.
This project will significantly enhance the quality of life for Scandia residents and provide lasƟng benefits for park and
trail users across Minnesota.
As a bicyclist, hiker, and outdoor recreaƟon enthusiast, I look forward to using this trail once it is completed. Safe,
accessible connecƟons between state parks and nearby communiƟes create opportuniƟes for people to experience the
character of small towns like Scandia. When visitors like me bike into town, we also support local businesses—bringing
economic acƟvity along with our appreciaƟon for the community.
Importantly, this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribuƟon from the City of Scandia. Declining this
opportunity would mean passing up a chance to strengthen the city’s recreaƟonal assets and enhance the experience of
both residents and visitors.
I respecƞully urge you to support this trail extension and advance construcƟon as planned.
Thank you for your Ɵme and consideraƟon.
Sincerely, Suzanne Sisson
Sent from my iPad
1
Kyle Morell
From:Tawnya Schrank <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 3:15 PM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Gateway extension Dec 9 city council meeting topic
Dear Scandia City Council Members,
I am writing to voice my strong support for the Gateway State Trail extension from
William O’Brien State Park to Scandia. This project will significantly enhance the quality of
life for Scandia residents and provide lasting benefits for park and trail users across
Minnesota.
As a bicyclist, hiker, and outdoor recreation enthusiast, I look forward to using this trail
once it is completed. Safe, accessible connections between state parks and nearby
communities create opportunities for people to experience the character of small towns
like Scandia. When visitors like me bike into town, we also support local businesses—
bringing economic activity along with our appreciation for the community.
Importantly, this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribution from the
City of Scandia. Declining this opportunity would mean passing up a chance to
strengthen the city’s recreational assets and enhance the experience of both residents
and visitors.
I respectfully urge you to support this trail extension and advance construction as
planned.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Tawnya Schrank and Eric Feig
Plymouth MN
1
Kyle Morell
From:Mark Holloway <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 2:56 PM
To:kronmiller@ci.scandia.mn.us; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle
Morell
Subject:Supporting the Gateway State Trail
Hello to the Scandia City Council and Mayor Knonmiller,
All the best to you for a safe and merry Christmas and holiday season.
Mark Holloway here, property owner (16987 197th St.), writing in support of the Gateway Trail extension.
My family and I support this simply because of the goals it sets out to accomplish:
- stronger trail connection – making it a safer and easier way to access William O’Brien from Scandia and
vice versa
- easier access for more – again, not just for William O’Brien but create access to Scandia benefitting the
commercial core and small businesses
- enhanced opportunities for recreation and being active
This extension seems like an easy thing to do given the HUGE number of beneficial outcomes.
Thanks,
Mark Holloway
Terra Firma Building and Remodeling
2350 Territorial Rd. `
St. Paul, MN 55114
651-207-5575 office
www.terrafirmamn.com
1
Kyle Morell
From:Ted Duepner <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 2:49 PM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell; Parks &
Trails Council
Subject:Save the Gateway State Trail Scandia Segment
Dear Scandia City Council Members,
I am writing to voice my strong support for the Gateway State Trail extension from William O’Brien
State Park to Scandia. This project will significantly enhance the quality of life for Scandia residents
and provide lasting benefits for park and trail users across Minnesota.
As a bicyclist, hiker, and outdoor recreation enthusiast, I look forward to using this trail once it is
completed. Safe, accessible connections between state parks and nearby communities create
opportunities for people to experience the character of small towns like Scandia. When visitors like
me bike into town, we also support local businesses—bringing economic activity along with our
appreciation for the community.
Importantly, this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribution from the City of Scandia.
Declining this opportunity would mean passing up a chance to strengthen the city’s recreational
assets and enhance the experience of both residents and visitors.
I respectfully urge you to support this trail extension and advance construction as planned.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Ted Duepner
1
Kyle Morell
From:Jason Burbul <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 1:14 PM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Gateway Trail extension to Scandia
I support the extension of the Gateway trail to Scandia.
I’m a regular bicycle rider of the trail currently and would use the new trail to come to
Scandia as a destination.
Thank you
Jason Burbul
1
Kyle Morell
From:Brett Feldman <
Sent:Friday, December 5, 2025 2:26 PM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Gateway State Trail - Scandia project
Attachments:Scandia Fact Sheet P&TC.pdf
Hi Kyle,
I'm writing on behalf of the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota, a 3,000-member conservation
organization that has supported the Gateway State Trail connection from Scandia to William O’Brien
State Park through easement acquisitions and sustained advocacy. We’ve been committed partners with
the city and many others in advancing this project for two decades. I’ve previously submitted a letter of
support, but I want to again encourage you and the City Council to move this project forward by awarding
a construction contract at the Dec. 16 meeting so Phase I can be completed in 2026. Instead of
resubmitting my earlier letter, I’m attaching a flyer we’ve published on behalf of project supporters.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to provide additional public comment.
—Brett
Brett Feldman, president
Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota
275 East Fourth Street, Suite 250
St. Paul, MN 55101
651-370-7900
www.parksandtrails.org
1
Kyle Morell
From:Thomas O'Sullivan <
Sent:Monday, December 8, 2025 9:56 AM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Please support the trail extension!
Dear Mr Morrell,
I am writing to encourage you to support the Gateway State Trail extension from Scandia to William
O’Brien State Park. This project will really enhance the outdoor opportunities for Scandia area
residents, and provide lasting benefits for park and trail users across Minnesota.
As a walker and bicyclist, I’m eager to use this trail once it is completed. I’m also a Gateway Trail
volunteer - I regularly walk and bike the trail to help keep it litter-free. I often chat with folks who
ask about trail extensions and they get excited about taking a trail from your town into O’Brien State
Park. Safe, accessible connections between state parks and nearby communities bring great
opportunities for us to visit and enjoy towns like Scandia. When visitors like me bike into town, we
support your businesses — we bring our dollars as well our appreciation for the community.
And please remember that this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribution from the
City of Scandia. Turning down this opportunity would mean passing up a chance to strengthen the
city’s recreational assets and enhance the experience of both residents and visitors. I cherish the idea
that my grandsons will some day ride from O’Brien into Scandia, thanks to your support now.
I urge you to support this trail extension and advance construction as planned.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Thomas O’Sullivan
967 Nevada Avenue West
Saint Paul MN55117
1
Kyle Morell
From:Laurie Mainquist <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 7:28 PM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Support for Scandia Gateway Trail extension
Dear Mr. Morell,
I fully support the funding and construction of the Gateway Scandia extension. It is a responsible use of
existing funding that will provide economic benefit to the City of Scandia, especially as it begins its
downtown improvement projects.
If you do not support this effort, you will also cause extreme harm to the efforts to extend the Gateway
Trail, a true amenity to Washington County.
Thank you.
Laurie Mainquist
--
Laurie Mainquist
1
Kyle Morell
From:Matthew Lehmann <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 2:46 PM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell
Subject:Gateway trail extension to Scandia
Dear Scandia City Council Members,
I am writing to voice my strong support for the Gateway State Trail extension from William O’Brien State
Park to Scandia. This project will significantly enhance the quality of life for Scandia residents and
provide lasting benefits for park and trail users across Minnesota.
As a bicyclist, hiker, and outdoor recreation enthusiast, I look forward to using this trail once it is
completed. Safe, accessible connections between state parks and nearby communities create
opportunities for people to experience the character of small towns like Scandia. When visitors like me
bike into town, we also support local businesses—bringing economic activity along with our appreciation
for the community.
Importantly, this project is fully funded and requires no financial contribution from the City of Scandia.
Declining this opportunity would mean passing up a chance to strengthen the city’s recreational assets
and enhance the experience of both residents and visitors.
I respectfully urge you to support this trail extension and advance construction as planned.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Matt Lehmann
218 Maple St W Stillwater
1
Kyle Morell
From:katie clapp <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 1:28 PM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Gateway State Trail Extension
Dear Kyle,
As avid bikers and walkers, we are very excited to see that Phase I of the Gateway State Trail extension could be
completed in 2026, furthering the plan of linking Scandia to William O’Brien State Park and the southern portion of the
Gateway Trail. After 25 years of the City of Scandia voting to support this trail extension, we urge you vote yes Dec. 16 to
move forward with Phase I, including constructing the tunnel under Highway 52.
Katie Clapp & Mark Ward
Quinnell Ave, Scandia
1
Kyle Morell
From:Lisa Etzwiler <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 12:32 PM
To:Kyle Morell
Subject:Please support the Scandia Segment of the Gateway Trail
Dear Kyle,
Please know that I strongly support the development of the Gateway Trail. Not only would this be an
incredible asset to the City of Scandia, but a "no" vote would hurt Scandia's credibility throughout the
state. That said, it is hard to imagine that this opportunity is even controversial with the city's
reputation on the line.
It is understoond that there are costs to the development of this project, but this is not a time to be
short sighted. The council must take advantage of this incredible grant opportunity. Future
generations are counting on us to act now, and they will be grateful for your "yes" to move this project
forward. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Lisa Etzwiler
20789 Quint Avenue North
1
Kyle Morell
From:Kylie Williamson <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 9:50 AM
To:s.kronmiller; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; James Gribble; Kyle Morell;
info@parksandtrails.org
Subject:Support the Gateway State Trail extension into Scandia
Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
As a fellow Scandia resident, I want to share my support for the ScandiaTrail. We live in one of
the most beautiful areas in the state where being outdoors could be paramount to our
communities’s ability to thrive. Unfortunately, outdoor trails, to walk, bike, etc… are something
our community is lacking. We have beautiful roads where we frequently see walkers, joggers and
cyclists, but this trail project would provide a safe, family friendly option for everyone’s everyday
use — not just for visitors, but for the people who live here.
Many of our roads have no shoulder and higher traffic speeds, making them difficult and
sometimes unsafe, for anyone on foot or on a bike. A dedicated trail would give families, kids, and
older residents a place to move around comfortably, and it would further connect Scandia to our
surrounding parks and towns. I believe in the plans laid out by the DNR, to connect our trail to
O’Brien.
This trail adds value to our community. After years of thoughtful planning, we’re almost to the
finish line and I hope you’ll do our part to continue to move this project forward.
Thank you for your work on behalf of Scandia.
Sincerely,
Kylie Williamson
Scandia Resident
Get Outlook for iOS
1
Kyle Morell
From:Patty Lange <
Sent:Sunday, December 7, 2025 9:20 AM
To:s.kronmiller; James Gribble; Kirsten Libby; j.cusick; Mike Lubke; Kyle Morell
Subject:Gateway Trail Support
Hi,
I am writing to you to show my support of the gateway trail expansion project in Scandia. I am not able to
attend the meeting this week but I wanted to make sure my voice was heard. I agree with the plan for the
trail. I think expanding the gateway trail through Scandia will have a positive economic impact on our city
and provide a great recreation opportunity for our residents.
I received the below information from the Scandia parks, which I found interesting. I am sure as city
council members you are already aware of the information below, but I thought I would include it just in
case. I think it provides important context for the decisions behind how the trail is being built.
Gateway State Trail extension Project in Scandia
History of the Trail and Route:
1. DNR selected the route of the Gateway State trail extension into Scandia, after many years of extensive
study by city, state and local professionals.
2. DNR chose larger tracts of land that are away from roads and more scenic in nature.
3. Easements were purchased from willing sellers for fair market value. Any resales were purchased by
willing buyers
with full knowledge of the Gateway State Trail easements.
Future goals for the Gateway State Trail extension:
1. Connect the trail south to the current terminus at Pine Point Regional Park in Stillwater. Much of the
easements have been purchased for this route.
2. Connect the trail north to meet up with the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail, with plans to eventually
connect to other trails that would extend all the way to Duluth.
Current funding sources for Phase 1:
1. 2022 - The Scandia City Council approved the submission for the LCCMR grant application.
2. $2,689,00 LCCMR grant awarded in 2023. Zero cost to Scandia residents. Funds expire in early 2027 and
completion of the trail is required by 2026 year end.
3. $800,000 – Washington County funding – local, state and federal sources.
4. $200,000 – DNR federal grant – Zero cost to Scandia residents.
5. $3,689,000 total funding available.
Why a Tunnel:
1. The DNR and Washington County require a tunnel for safety reasons.
2
2. Substantial bike traffic is expected coming from some of the 200,000+ William O’Brien State Park visitors
with a
further increase when the connection to Pine Point Regional Park is complete.
3. Without a tunnel there will be significant traffic disruptions and safety concerns. A speed limit reduction
from 55 mph,
may not be effective as drivers don’t always follow posted speed limits.
Why are there two trail crossings on Oakhill?
1. One trail will be paved for bikers and will go through the tunnel.
2. The other trail will be dirt for horses to cross over Oakhill. The culvert would need to be much taller and
more costly
to accommodate a horse. Horses tend to be fearful of tunnels, especially with bikers coming in and out.
Gateway State Trail Extension into Scandia:
1. Phase 1: from trailhead behind Meister’s on city-owned land to Oakhill Road, including the tunnel.
2. Phase 2: from Oakhill Road to William O’Brien State Park. The DNR has LCCMR funding for design and
engineering,
which has already begun. When Phase 1 is completed, the DNR will apply for funding for Phase 2. This
could take another 3-5 years and will be a priority for the DNR to complete the connection.
Who will maintain the trail?
1. The Gateway State Trail is owned, operated and maintained by the DNR just like a State Park.
Economic benefit:
1. Cyclists will be able to come from the state park to businesses in downtown Scandia - Meisters, Scandia
Café, Maklin Bike Shop, Gammelgarden, the future Water Tower Barn Arts and Heritage Center and more.
2. Some Scandia residents purchased their properties because of a Gateway State Trail easement. Others
will be attracted to the area because of the trail.
3. Bike trails such as Cuyuna in Crosby, Root River Trail in Lanesboro, and Browns Creek Trail in Stillwater
have enhanced the economic value of these regions.
4. Protected bike lanes may add desirability and increase home values while providing safe recreation and
transportation for families and children.
Widespread community support for the trail:
1. The City of Scandia has 87 support letters from 2022 – 2025 and a petition with 926 signers.
2. 18 of the letters are from community organizations and businesses in the area.
Consequences of rejecting the project:
1. If Scandia were to reject the project at this point all LCCMR funding would be lost.
2. Scandia would not likely get this funding again as the LCCMR now requires a 25% match from the city.
3. The current deadline of the LCCMR funding could not be met.
4. Scandia would also not likely obtain any other state grant funding for any project, as the state would be
wary of
3
awarding funding to the city again.
https://parksandtrails.org/advocacy/recreation/gateway-scandia/
Thank you for all you do!
Patty Lange
12.9.2025_Gateway Trail Hearing_Comments
Pam Arnold: 16560 220th Street North Scandia
Pamela.Arnold.Minnesota@gmail.com
To: Scandia City Council, StaƯ, and Fellow Scandia Residents
I am among the many residents and Gateway Trail enthusiasts who are very much in favor
of the Trail expansion into Scandia. I so look forward to a way to ride my bicycle without
encountering Hwy 95, once a National Scenic Byway, now a very dangerous highway.
Thank you to the Friends of Scandia Parks and Trails who have committed hundreds of
hours, and very smart/visionary thinking to bring the MNDNR Gateway State Trail to
Scandia. I trust that our City Council will graciously acknowledge that without the
tremendous citizen initiatives in Scandia, many of our best qualities, ideas and assets
simply WOULD NOT EXIST—if not for the vigilant and quantifiable follow-through of
community members.
As the issue of taxes comes up time and again, I think that it is remiss of our very small city
government to not acknowledge nor quantify the cost-free work and contributions of
volunteers. The "Gateway" has been an 8-year process. The Counsel has had ample time to
make their impact on the plan. Now is the moment for the Counsel, and residents, to oƯer
to support the trail in any way appropriate. Including guiding the project to the best
outcomes for all who live near, and who visit Scandia from afar. I will be among those who
have not contributed to the success of the trail, to now step-up and oƯer my support and
help.
Among the details that catch my concern, and oƯer opportunity for variations within the
current parameters of the construction plan, are the following:
1. Bituminous trail surfaces: In our time of intense climate change, would there be
tolerance to consider alternative surface materials that would decrease the radiant heat
impact of black tarmac, known as "heat islands"?
2. The loss of old growth remnant Oak Savanna is a heartbreak, even as the decision to fell
these incredible "ancestors" is to allow wetland setbacks. Could there be another look at
the design of the trail in the areas of Bur Oak shade? The tremendous capacity of these
trees to service many environmental functions might challenge the convention of simply
removing them because they are "in the way". The root systems not only support wetland
vitality, they cool the air via transpiration of ground water, helping to prevent flooding, and
to oƯset the radiant heat of the path surfaces. Concerns for wetlands and the teaming
multi-species habitat that wetlands provide should invite another look at the value of such
trees.
3. Safety Considerations: The much argued "Boxed Culvert Underpass" has good support in
favor of safety. However, horseback riders and their horses have been relegated to a less
represented class. I would argue that this is a convenient but not satisfactory class-system.
"Expense" has been an argument against innovation in Scandia for as long as I've lived
here. Expense has been played as the selling point for 1. no sidewalks, even as costly
paved roads have replaced sand/gravel lanes 2. Inadequate oversite of private septic
systems 3. Lack of park signage 4. Lackluster parks and trail stewardship… . Scandia's
commitment to "low taxes" has been oƯset by incredible volunteerism here. When it
comes to stopping short of full consideration for user safety and the Gateway Trail, the
city should be ashamed. My request is for the city to revisit the lack of consideration for
people and their horses by collaborating with the DNR, and perhaps a tax levy too support
the construction of a beautiful and safe trail for all. Talk to the LCCMR re the 2027 deadline
with a commitment to work within the guidelines. Step-up to the challenge.
Thank you for accepting all the comments from residents and trail enthusiasts. The better
Scandia is ahead.
Sincerely,
Pam Arnold