Jordan City Council Prioritizes Trail Development and Strategic Planning at April 28 Meeting
By Jan Gilmer
At its April 28, 2025 work session and regular meeting, the Jordan City Council focused on trail development priorities, including updates on the CR 9 trail and a proposed nature trail along the bluffs. Council also began preparations for the 2025 strategic planning retreat and discussed key items such as pump track funding, contract renewals, and park improvements. Updates from city staff and Councilmember comments rounded out the evening.
City Council Work Session
Trail Improvements Plan
The Council reviewed trail improvements for 2025, referencing the 2023 Trail Improvements Plan, which was based on the 2010 Master Parks and Trails Plan and the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The plan aims to identify trail connections that will create a more functional and accessible system for all residents. Gaps in trail connectivity were discussed, particularly in areas of recent development.
Two high-priority trail projects were highlighted:
CR 9 Trail
Preliminary discussions with Scott County have begun regarding the CR 9 Trail, which would fall within county right-of-way and therefore require permitting and potential cost-sharing. While the county has no plans to reconstruct the corridor within the next 10 years, Bolton & Menk suggested pursuing external funding sources such as Metropolitan Council, DNR, or USDOT grants.
Council asked Bolton & Menk to revisit the plan layout with Scott County before holding a public open house. Considerations included trail width adjustments near the roundabout (8 feet on the east side, 10 feet on the west as part of the regional trail) and complications posed by existing zoning, drainage, and residential structures. Enhancements to the CR 9 and 190th Street crossing were discussed, as well as future turn lane planning.
Council expressed interest in trail projects that would enhance city-wide connectivity rather than future expansion areas. They also requested that staff determine if trail construction could be coordinated with the CR 9 roundabout project to avoid lane closures and to explore potential county and township participation.
Trail at the Toe of the Bluffs
This nature trail would run from Seville Drive in the Whispering Meadows development, southwest through the bluff and wetland areas to CR 66 and the Beaumont Bluffs development. The preliminary alignment was based on wetland delineations, DNR mapping, and site visits, with design guided by the “IMBA Guide for Building Sweet Singletrack.”
The proposed trail would be an 18–24” single-file footpath, surfaced with wood chips to reduce mud. Wetland crossings would use 2–4’ wooden boardwalks without pilings. A mountain biking version could use the existing soil surface.
Permitting may be required due to potential wetland impacts, including mitigation payments. Property acquisition from six landowners would also be necessary. The next step is to walk the route with Public Works to evaluate feasibility, determine needed equipment and materials, and explore DNR and other external funding options.
These trail discussions will inform the City’s Capital Improvement Plan.
Strategic Planning 2025
Council reviewed background materials in preparation for the 2025 strategic planning retreat scheduled for June 30. Documents included:
2022 Strategic Plan
2019 Survey and Results
2019 Strategic Planning Session Results
2020 State of Jordan letter
2020 Survey Questions
The city intends to continue annual strategic planning sessions to evaluate progress and adjust goals as needed.
City Council Meeting
Administration Report
Councilmember Schuh asked which city contracts are up for renewal in 2025. City Administrator Tom Nikunen confirmed the engineering and legal contracts are due.
Planner’s Report
City Planner Sahni Moore presented further research on pump tracks, including quotes for both modular and concrete options. A pump track is a looped, paved or dirt course with rollers and banked turns, designed for bikes and scooters to be ridden using body movement instead of pedaling. The Council favored a concrete pump track due to durability, with installation proposed at Grassman Park.
Council requested the matter be returned to the Park and Recreation Committee (PRAC) to reassess priorities. Council also suggested adding a question about pump track interest to the upcoming community survey. Other potential Grassman Park improvements included a shelter and restroom facilities.
Police Report
Councilmember Schuh inquired about a refuse container in front of the new distillery on 2nd Street. Chief Empy reported that the plumbing inspection has been delayed 4–6 weeks, preventing further development. The container is expected to be removed once construction is completed. A smaller container was deemed unnecessary due to the short remaining timeline.
Consent Agenda
Items A–D (Check Detail, Police Report, Finance Report, CSO Hire) were approved unanimously.
Item E (No Mow May) passed despite Councilmember Whipps voting “Nay,” citing conflict with existing ordinances.
Item F (Firefighter Resignation – Esckstam) sparked discussion. Mayor Fremming questioned its inclusion in the Consent Agenda, but Administrator Nikunen explained it was recommended by the city attorney. Councilmember Goebel opposed, while Mayor Fremming and Councilmember Whipps abstained.
Mayor’s Comments
Mayor Fremming acknowledged the efforts of first responders during recent emergency events. He also shared community updates:
Cinco de Mayo: Saturday, May 3 at the Mini-Met, 5:00–11:00 p.m.
Movie in the Park: Friday, May 9
City Presentation at SCALE: Coming this month
Council Comments
Councilmember Schuh: 169 interchange groundbreaking to be rescheduled; called for a discussion on city-owned property; noted Brewers season opener is Sunday, May 4.
Councilmember Pho: Shared a resident complaint about inadequate notice regarding lane reduction on Hwy 282.
Councilmember Monyok: Reminded all of the school play running May 2–4.
Councilmember Whipps: Noted construction challenges around the CR 9 roundabout may impact Scott County Fair visitors; staff is coordinating with contractors.
The next Jordan City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m.