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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-10-11 HPC Packet MAPLEWOOD HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL October 11, 2012 - 7:00 P.M. 1.Call to Order 2.Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4.Approval of Minutes a.August 9, 2012 5. Chair Opening Statements/Presentations 6.Visitor Presentations 7. Old Business a.Fish Creek Master Plan b.Gladstone Savanna 2012 Historical Investigation c. Historic Site Survey –Discussion Only 8. New Business a.Tubman & theOld Priory Building – Discussion Only 9. Commission Presentations a.Frost Ave Bridge Signage nd b.The 32Annual Statewide Historic Preservation Conference th c. Economic Development City Council Workshop September 24 10.Maplewood Area Historical Society Update 11. Staff Presentations a.Election of Chair and Vice Chair 12. Adjournment NOTE:There may be a quorum of the Heritage Preservation Commissioners at the Maplewood Area Historical Society meeting onNovember 14, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. The Maplewood Area Historical Society meetings are held at the Bruentrup Heritage Farm, 2170 County Road D, Maplewood. There may be a quorum of the Heritage Preservation Commissioners at theHalloween Hoedown on October 19, 3012 from6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Halloween Hoedown will be held at the Maplewood Community Center Banquet Room at 2100 White Bear Ave. MINUTESOF THE MAPLEWOOD HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION 1830 COUNTY ROAD B EAST, MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA THURSDAY,AUGUST 9, 2012 1. CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the Commissionwas held in the City Hall Council Chambers and was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chairperson Boulay. 2. ROLL CALL Absent Caleb Anderson, Commissioner Absent Lucille Aurelius, Commissioner Peter Boulay, Chairperson Present Robert Creager, Commissioner Present Richard Currie, Commissioner Present Leonard Hughes, Commissioner Present Absent Brenda Rudberg, Commissioner Staff Present: David Fisher, Building Official 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Commissioners decided to table 11 a. the election of chair and vice chair until more members were present. Commissioner Currie moved to approve the agenda as amended. Seconded by CommissionerHughes. Ayes – All The motion passed. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES CommissionerCurriemoved to approve theJuly 12, 2012, HPCminutes as submitted. Seconded by CommissionerCreager. Ayes – Commissioner’s Creager, Currie & Hughes Abstention – Chairperson Boulay The motion passed. 5. CHAIR OPENING STATEMENTS None. August 9, 2012 1 Heritage Preservation CommissionMeetingMinutes 6.VISITOR PRESENTATIONS a.Guest Speaker – Ron Cockriel, 943 Century Avenue, Maplewood. Mr. Cockriel stated he had approached the Maplewood Area Historical Society asking ifthey th would house an exhibit at the Bruentrup Farmfor the 100WWI Anniversary. His brother has an extensive collection of WWI memorabilia. It would be nice in late 2013 or early 2014 to have year- long display in the basement of the Bruentrup Farm barn.He would like to take the donations from having the WWI display and put the donationstowards the yellow ribbon fund to help families in the community who have loved ones in the armed services.Another thought is to share ideas for the Memorial Park. Commissioner Currie made a motion of support for this. Seconded by Commissioner Hughes. Ayes – All The motion passed. 7.OLD BUSINESS a.Historic Site Survey from Past HPC Meetings i.Staffgave a background on the packet of photos of historical propertiesand the process of how a property is deemed historical. Staff discussed how to get properties such as the Masoleum and the Priory deemed historical. Before a property can be deemed historical it needs approval from the city, county and state. A public hearing has to be posted in the newspaper and scheduled to be heard at a HPC meeting. You need a map of where the property is located, the address, documentation about the property, photos of the property. The commission agreed that the city should move forward in going through the channels to deem the Priory property historical. 8.NEW BUSINESS a.Sample Information from other Local Government Certified Communities i.Staff reviewed and discussed the sample information from other local government certified communities. 9.COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS a.Frost Avenue Bridge Sign Contest - Tabled Commissioner Caleb Anderson is not here to speak to this item but staff had heard Commissioner Anderson was working with Century College on this sign contest for the Frost Avenue Bridge. This item is tabled until Commissioner Anderson is present to give an update on the contest for the new sign for the bridge. Bob Jensen, Maplewood Historical Society discussed the bridge and those that have pictures of the bridge. 10. MAPLEWOOD AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY a.Bob Jensen, President of the Maplewood Historical Society addressed the commission. August 9, 2012 2 Heritage Preservation CommissionMeetingMinutes There will be a Maplewood Historical Society on September 12, 2012, at 7:00 p.m. at the Bruentrup Heritage Farm, 2170 County Road D, Maplewood. The basement at the barn is going to be climate controlled and that space could be used for displays such as the WWI Anniversary display that Ron Cockriel discussed. Upcoming events are Johnny Appleseed Day on August 25, 2012, from 11-4, on September 11, 2012, there will be a Civil War discussion by Jeff Williamsat the Ramsey County Library on Southlawn Avenue, and theRamsey County Library is having extensive lectures regarding the Civil War the month of September. Bob Jensen also discussed archaeological digs in the Gladstone savanna areaand a study he would like to see done. 11.STAFFPRESENTATIONS a.Election of Chair and Vice Chair - Tabled Because 3 members were absent at the HPC meeting the commission decided to table voting on elections for chair and vice chair. nd b.The 32Annual Statewide Historic Preservation Conference Staff stated there will be a Statewide Historic Preservation Conference on September 13 – 14, 2012, in Fergus Falls at the Center for the Arts/Fergus Theatre. If you are interested in attending please turn your form into staff. 12.ADJOURNMENT ChairpersonBoulayadjourned the meeting at 8:30p.m. August 9, 2012 3 Heritage Preservation CommissionMeetingMinutes MEMORANDUM TO : Parks and RecreationCommission FROM : Ginny Gaynor, Natural Resources Coordinator DATE : October 3, 2012 for October 11, 2012 Meeting RE : Fish Creek Master Plan INTRODUCTION Maplewood is developing a Master Plan for the 70-acre Fish Creek parcel south of Carver Avenue. Three public meetings were held to develop concepts for the Master Plan. At the OctoberCommission meeting, commissioners will review the plan and make recommendations. DISCUSSION Maplewood has an agreement to purchase 70 acres of land near Fish Creek in south Maplewood from The Conservation Fund. Once the land is purchased, 50 acres will be owned by the city and 20 acres will be owned by Ramsey County. Grants received for site acquisition and restoration require that we prepare a management plan. The City and County will prepare a Master Plan and a Management Plan prior to owning the site. Development of the plans is a joint venture between Maplewood, Ramsey County, and Great River Greening. At the October Commission meeting, staff will present the proposed Master Plan for the site (Attachment 1).The plan consists of three documents:Master Plan Concepts, Trail Concept Map, and Target Vegetation Map. Three public meetings were held to develop the plan, including a hike at the site. Residents from both Maplewood and St. Paul attended the meetings and everyone that attended the final meeting supported the Master Plan concepts. The 2005 Phase I Archeological Survey for the Carver Crossing Project of Maplewood, done for a developer, served as the key historical document that was considered in developing the site Master Plan. Selected pages fromthat report are enclosed as Attachment 2.The areas with artifacts are covered in Section 4.4.1-4.4.2 and Section 4.6 (Area E, 4.1-4.2). The full report is available on-line at: www.ci.maplewood.mn.us/fishcreek(click on Master Plan and see History section). The scope of theMaster Plan project did not allow for additional historical investigation at this time. The plan includes the following recommendations for historical preservation: Conduct a Phase II Archaeological investigation for site 21RA0054 prior to developing a trail. Ensure trail will not damage or impact artifacts. Support efforts of Maplewood Area Historical Society and Maplewood’s Heritage Preservation Commission to document and better understand the history of this site. In addition, the plan includes a section on site interpretation and recommends that an interpretive plan be developed to highlight site history, natural resources and restoration activities. On October 2, 2012, as part of the City’syear-long series of programs focused on Fish Creek, Maplewood Area Historical Society hosted a presentation by archeologist Garrett Knudsen on Archeology of Fish Creek and the Woodland Culture. Based on Mr. Knudsen’s recommendations and public discussion at the presentation, staff recommends we amend the historical section of the Master Plan to improve clarity and to include encouraging Ramsey County and private landowners to conduct an archeological survey onflat areas nearthe creek. Attachment 3 suggests revised text for this section. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Heritage Preservation Commission approves the Master Plan for Fish Creek, with the suggested revisions to the section on History and Archeology. Attachments: 1.Proposed Master Plan 2.Selected pages from 2005 Archeological Surveyreport 3.Revised text for Historical Section of Master Plan Fish Creek Trail Concept rustic trail Archaelogical site Need further study Proposed parking Paved Trail Alternate Paved Trail Paved Trail Alternate rustic trail Vista locations 0527550 Feet Fish Creek Proposed Master Plan Concepts 9/12/12 The City of Maplewood and Ramsey County have prepared this Master Plan for the 70-acre parcel of land south of Carver Avenue. This Master Plan was prepared jointly to ensure protection of natural resources, to provide public access to the site, and to ensure connectivity of habitats and trails. The Master Plan includes a map showing Trail Concept, a map showing Target Vegetation, and this narrative. Site Use and Activities This site is a natural area for wildlife and a place for people to experience and enjoy nature. Grants received for acquisition of the 50 acres south of Fish Creek restrict the land to passive uses. Hiking, bird watching, and nature study are appropriate uses at the site. The area north of the creek does not have these restrictions. However, much of the northern section is protected wetland and this plan proposes the north section remains natural. The 8 acres adjacent to Carver Avenue may be developed someday. If that area is not developed, it could remain natural or be used as active parkland or community garden. Master Plan Process Three public meetings were held in summer 2012 to develop the site plan, which was then drafted by city and county staff. The Master Plan will be reviewed by three Maplewood commissions for their recommendation: Parks and Recreation Commission, Environmental and Natural Resources Commission, and Heritage Preservation Commission. The Plan will then be submitted to Maplewood City Council. Parking Parking Lot on Henry Lane. The plan calls for a small parking lot of approximately 20 stalls on Henry Lane, sited north of the Fish Creek. This location will provide a direct connection to the rustic trail ĂůŽŶŐƚŚĞĐƌĞĞŬĂŶĚǁŝůůŚĞůƉĐŽŶƐƚƌŝĐƚŝůůĞŐĂůǀĞŚŝĐĂůĂĐĐĞƐƐƚŽƚŚĞƐŝƚĞƐŝŶĐĞƚŚĞĐƌĞĞŬŝƐĂ͞ƉŝŶĐŚ ƉŽŝŶƚ͘͟ Parking Lot Near Point Douglas Road. The plan shows trail access from the west at Oakwood Church, 1388 Point Douglas Road. In the past, the church indicated a willingness to explore being a trailhead for the rustic Fish Creek Hiking Trail and allowing people to use their parking lot. Prior to trail development, the city and county should pursue discussions of this with Oakwood Church. If this option does not come to fruition, the county owns land along Point Douglas Road north of the church and the trail could come to this point. However, parking on this parcel of county land would likely be limited to just a few stalls, rather than a parking lot. Trails Paved Trail Loop.Ŷϴ͛ƚŽϭϬ͛ͲǁŝĚĞďŝƚƵŵŝŶŽƵƐƚƌĂŝůǁŝůůƚĂŬĞǀŝƐŝƚŽƌƐĨƌŽŵƚŚĞ,ĞŶƌLJ>ĂŶĞƉĂƌŬŝŶŐ lot on a loop to the bluff top. Some of this trail takes advantage of old driveways on the site, to reduce disturbance and need for grading. The trail would comply with the American with Disabilities Act standards. Two alternate trail sections are shown on the Master Plan, which would depend on funding. Fish Creek Hiking Trail. A rustic trail will take visitors along the creek from Point Douglas Road to Henry Lane. This trail would be graded to minimize erosion and would be mowed grass in open areas and soil surface in wooded areas. A portion of the trail would be on both sides of the creek. Additional Rustic Trail Loop. A rustic trail (graded, mowed) is planned for the southern portion of the site and continues on the county open space. Additional Discussion. During the public meetings a suggestion was made to have a section of ƉĂǀĞĚƚƌĂŝůĨƌŽŵKĂŬǁŽŽĚŚƵƌĐŚŐŽŝŶŐƐŽƵƚŚƚŽƚŚĞŵŽƐƚƐĐĞŶŝĐƐĞĐƚŝŽŶŽĨƚŚĞĐƌĞĞŬʹƚŚĞĐĂŶLJŽŶ͘ This is not shown on the map but it is an idea worth further discussion by the county and Oakwood Church. Overlooks and Benches The Master Plan shows three vista locations. Benches would be located at these sites. Additional benches would be installed along the trails as needed. Water and Bathroom Facilities No drinking water or bathroom facilities are planned for the site. However, the parking lot on Henry Lane should be constructed to allow for a porta-potty, in case a porta-potty is needed in the future. Signage At a minimum, signage at the site should include an entry sign with the name of the preserve, a rule sign, a map of the trail system, and boundary markers where necessary to delineate public and private land. (Also see Site Interpretation below.) Target Vegetation The Master Plan shows the target vegetation planned for the site. This site was historically woodland, and was later cleared for farming. An aerial photo from 1940 shows only two small areas of trees on the site. Today the site is a mix of pasture grasslands, degraded woodlands, and a pine plantation. The restoration plan for the site is to transition the open grasslands to prairie and oak savanna and to enhance the existing wooded areas by removing non-native trees and brush and planting species that are native to oak woodland. History and Archeology In 2005, Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. conducted a Phase I Archaeological Survey of the 70-acre site for CoPar Development. Summit recommended one archeological site for Phase II archaeological testing to determine eligibility in the National Registry of Historic Places (NRHP). This archeological site (shown on Master Plan) consists of fragments of ceramics, lithics, and one faunal remain. The slopes in this area make it the preferred location for the rustic trail from Henry Lane down to the creek. A Phase II Archaeological investigation should be done prior to developing a trail in this area and should be routed to ensure no damage or impacts to artifacts. dŚĞĐŝƚLJĂŶĚĐŽƵŶƚLJƐŚĂůůƐƵƉƉŽƌƚĞĨĨŽƌƚƐŽĨDĂƉůĞǁŽŽĚƌĞĂ,ŝƐƚŽƌŝĐĂů^ŽĐŝĞƚLJĂŶĚDĂƉůĞǁŽŽĚ͛Ɛ Heritage Preservation Commission to document and better understand the history of this site. Ideally, grants would be submitted to conduct additional archeological work and to research and document the site history. Site Interpretation Once the history of this site is better documented, an interpretive plan should be developed to highlight site history, natural resources and restoration activities. Discussions at the Master Plan public meetings favored an interpretive trail with numbered posts that would correspond to printed material and web information about the site, rather than having extensive interpretive signage at the site. Attachment 2 Attachment 3 Fish Creek Master Plan Revised Text for History and Archeology Section In 2005, Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. conducted a Phase I archaeological survey of the 70-acre Fish Creek site for CoPar Development. Summit recommended one archeological site, 21RA0054, undergo Phase II archaeological testing to determine eligibility in the National Registry of Historic Places (NRHP). This archeological site consists of fragments of ceramics, lithics, and one faunal remain. Due to topography along the creek, this is also the preferred location for the rustic trail from Henry Lane to the creek. To preserve the history of this site and protect archeological artifacts, the City shall undertake the following measures. Conduct a Phase II Archaeological investigation for site 21RA0054. If site 21RA0054 is deemed eligible for NRHP listing, follow Maplewood’s established procedures for listing a site – recommendation by Heritage Preservation Commission and approval by City Council. Any trail or amenities near site 212RA0054 should be positioned to ensure no damage or impacts to artifacts. Encourage Ramsey County and landowners adjacent to the creek to support archeological survey work in flat areas near the creek. Such work could be done by an archeological consulting firm, or it could be done in conjunction with a university. The City shall support those efforts as feasible. Prior to trail or other construction projects on the site, develop instructions for contractors explaining what to do if artifacts are encountered during construction. Support efforts of Maplewood Area Historical Society and Maplewood’s Heritage Preservation Commission to document and better understand the history of this site. Ideally, grants would be submitted to conduct additional archeological work and to research and document the site history. MEMORANDUM TO : Parks and RecreationCommission FROM : Ginny Gaynor, Natural Resources Coordinator DATE : October 3, 2012 for October 11, 2012 Meeting RE : Gladstone Savanna 2012 Historical Investigation INTRODUCTION In Summer 2012, Maplewood conducted historical investigations at Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve in conjunction with Phase I improvements to the site. At the October Commission meeting, staff will present a summary of those investigations. DISCUSSION In November 2011, the Heritage Preservation Commission approved the Master Plan for Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve. The Plan was subsequently adopted by Maplewood City Council. Gladstone Savanna is the site of the former Gladstone Shops of the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad. The site Master Plan includesdesign elements and concepts thatcelebrate the site’s history. Information on the project is available on the city’s website at www.ci.maplewood.mn.us/gladstonesavanna. Implementation of Phase I improvements at Gladstone Savanna began in June 2012. Improvements included soil remediation, major grading, and construction of trails and stormwater system. Phase I also included two historical investigations: Archeo-Physics, LLCconducted a geophysical survey at the siteto determine if there were any intact foundations below the soil surface. Several foundations were located. Staff member Dave Fisher did a brief presentation on this work at the July 12, 2012 Commission meeting. The preliminary report on this work is posted on-line at: www.archaeophysics.com/gladstone/index.html. This investigation was funded in part by a grant from the Minnesota Historical Society. Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. documented historic foundations and artifacts that were exposed during grading for site improvements. The report and an addendum are included as Attachment 1 and Attachment 2 respectively. For Phase I construction at Gladstone Savanna, contractors were given the following instructions: 1.If intact foundations are encountered, stop work and contact city staff. 2.If pieces of foundation or artifacts are encountered, which do not seem to be intact in the soil, pile these and continue work. When the trail at the Savanna was excavated, materials wereencountered near the roundhouse. The contracted project manager decided that the materials were not intact foundations and thus instructed the contractor to pile materials and continue excavation. Due to the amount of material, the location, and the size of pieces, City staff hadthe archeologist returnto the site to document this material. The archeologist’s documentation of the piles is in the Addendum dated September 28, 2012 (Attachment 2). She indicatesit islikely that the excavation disturbed portions of the roundhouse foundation, though some of the debris may have been from activities related to demolition of the buildings prior to the city purchasing the land. The archeologist concludes: “Based on the limited scope of site disturbance and localized damage to the roundhouse foundation, the integrity of the site does not appear to have been significantly affected.” Several pieces from the piles were left on site and will be used in landscaping and interpretation of site history. At the October Commission meeting, staff will summarize the findings from geophysical and archeological work done at Gladstone Savanna in 2012. RECOMMENDATION No action required. July 30, 2012 Virginia Gaynor City of Maplewood Parks and Recreation Department 1830 County Road B East Maplewood, MN 55109 Re:Archaeological Monitoring and Visual Assessment for the Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve and Gloster Park Project, City of Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota. Summit Project Number 2161-0001; SHPO Number: Pending Dear Ms. Gaynor: Per your request, Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. (Summit) has completed archaeological monitoring and visual assessment for the Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve and Gloster Park Project (the Project) for the City of Maplewood (the City). Project Description The Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve is one of fourteen Maplewood Neighborhood Preserve managed by the City. In 2011, the City approved a concept plan for the development of the 24-acre property located in the southwest corner of Frost Avenue and English Street in Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota (Figure 1), which was formerly occupied by the Gladstone Shops of the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad from the late-nineteenth to the early- twentieth centuries. The plan will be conducted in two phases. Phase I includes soil remediation, stormwater system and trail installation, seeding, and planting. The soil remediation plan was developed as part of the Response Action Plan and Construction Contingency Plan approved by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for the property. The approved remediation includes the removal of a 50-foot-diameter area of contaminated soil to a depth of four feet, and the placement of two soils caps, each up to three feet deep, on two other contaminated portions of the project area. Stormwater management improvement plans include the installation of a new, two-celled stormwater system, and the enlargement and reshaping of an existing stormpond in the western half of the site. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 3 Phase II of the Project will incorporate the historical interpretation and preservation of the site and the development of site design features. Area of Potential Effect (APE) The APE was determined in consultation with the City of Maplewood Natural Resources Coordinator, and consists of the construction limits for the Project, including the proposed locations of the soil remediation activities, stormwater management system, and landscaping activities, and other additional park features. The APE encompasses approximately 22.11 acres (8.95 hectares). Background Research The Maplewood Area Historical Society is completing background research regarding the development and operation of the Gladstone Shops; therefore, Summit did not conduct additional research in advance of fieldwork. Documents providing a basic history of the site were provided to Summit by the City of Maplewood and the Maplewood Area Historical Society, including a CAD file with additional historical site features. A brief summary of the site’s history is provided below. The Gladstone Shops were constructed in association with the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad beginning in 1887. They originally comprised a 25-stall roundhouse; a large shop building containing a builder shop, machine shop, tin shop, tool room, kettles, steam engine room, boiler room, shavings room, wheel shop, two wood shops, and an erecting shop; a paint shop; a combination store room and office building; a repair shop; a blacksmith shop; a brass foundry; a gas house; turn tables; a 100’ smokestack; a transfer table; a sand bin; a 640-foot-deep well; a water tank; a dryer and sand shed; lumber sheds; iron bins; privies; coal sheds; iron and bolt sheds; and repair tracks. The St. Paul and Duluth Railroad was acquired by the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1900 (Northern Pacific Railway 1915; Schwietz 1977:7-16; Bradley 2006:14). The shops remained in operation until the early twentieth century, and were leased by various other companies beginning in 1916. During the 1940s, most of the track, as well as the boiler room, engine room, smoke stack, and roundhouse were removed from the site, and a steel water tower was installed (Schwietz 1977:7). By 1980, the remaining shops and structures on the site had been demolished. Previous Investigations The City informed Summit that in June of 2012, a geophysical investigation utilizing ground penetrating radar was conducted by Archaeo-Physics, LLC across portions of the APE. Results of this survey indicate that the site retains good subsurface integrity, with the presence of several features that correspond to the historic roundhouse and associated shops (Figure 2) (Archaeo- Physics, LLC 2012). 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com Map adapted from USGS 7.5 minute topographic map(s): St. Paul East and White Bear Lake West, MN; T 29N, R 22W, Section 16 PROJECT LOCATION Legend Gladstone Shops Project Location/APE Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota Figure 1 File: Fig1_ProjectLocation Summit Proj. No.: 2161-0001 Plot Date: 07-26-2012 02,000 Arc Operator: THV Feet Reviewed by: LSHO 1 inch = 2,000 feet Site Location City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 5 Field Methods Archaeological monitoring was conducted during the excavation of contaminated soils as part of the soil remediation plan for the site, and it included the visual examination of soils as they were removed from the excavation area and the documentation of the excavation process and exposed cultural resources with photographs and field notes. Due to the high level of soil contamination in the excavation area, soils were not handled directly, and the Principal Investigator did not enter the excavation area. In addition, visual reconnaissance of the APE was conducted in advance of site grading to identify aboveground archaeological features associated with the pre- 1960 occupation of the property. In portions of the APE where historical maps of the project area and/or geophysical survey results of the property indicated the potential for cultural features to be present, walkover transects were spaced at 5-meter (15-foot) intervals. The remaining portions of the project area were investigated at 10-meter (33-foot) intervals. The locations of ® the excavation and identified features were recorded using a Trimble Pro-XRS. GPS data overlays and field measurements were then utilized to create a map of the site. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 6 Figure 2. Geophysical Survey Results (north at top of image) 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 7 Fieldwork Results Summit conducted archaeological monitoring and visual reconnaissance for Phase I of the Project between June 18 and July 5, 2012. Laurie Ollila served as Principal Investigator and conducted the fieldwork with Bob Jensen of the Maplewood Area Historical Society. During the investigation, 37 features were identified (Figures 3 and 4). These features were designated as site 21RAXXXX. Monitoring A foundation (Feature 37, F37) was identified running north-to-south through the center of the excavation area (Figure 5) approximately 50 centimeters (19.7 inches) below the ground surface. This foundation was composed of stacked limestone blocks that extended to a depth of approximately 2.2 meters (7.22 feet) and rested upon a wider limestone base. Measurements of this base could not be obtained due to excavation constraints. Each limestone block measured approximately 90 to 95 centimeters (35.4 to 37.4 inches) wide, 45 to 50 centimeters (17.7 to 19.7 inches) tall, and 3 meters (9.8 feet) long. This foundation is in the approximate location of the eastern wall of the machine shop as depicted on an 1891 historical map and visible on a 1940 aerial photograph of the project area (see Figures 3 and 4). Two distinct soil profiles were observed during the removal of the contaminated soil from the excavation area (see Figure 5). The eastern half of the excavation area immediately east of the foundation contained a thin layer of organic debris and grass, beneath which was an approximately 50-centimeter (19.7-inch)-thick horizon of shiny, black, and brittle-looking loam- based soil with an abundance of burned and highly fragmented coal and occasional metal fragments was noted. Beneath this contaminated layer, a horizon of homogenous sand was encountered. This sand was typically light brown in color, though in the northeast quarter of the excavation area the soil transitioned from light brown sand to a medium brown sand containing cobbles. Although the soil remediation plan only required the excavation to extend to four feet below the ground surface, additional soil removal at the southern end of the excavation area revealed that the light brown sand extended to approximately 2.7 meters (8.9 feet) below the ground surface and rested directly upon a very black, dense, clay-based soil. The sand was likely brought into the area to build-up and/or level off the landscape in advance of the construction of the railroad facilities, and the accumulation of contaminated soils above it resulted from years of industrial operations associated with engine and boxcar construction, maintenance, and modification. The western half of the excavation area immediately west of the foundation exhibited a thin layer of organic debris and grass beneath which heavily mottled soils containing building debris including limestone, brick, mortar, and ferrous fragments, and a steel cable were observed. In the southwest quarter of the excavation area, these mottled soils continued to the final excavation depth of four feet below the ground surface, though the density of construction debris decreased significantly with depth. In the northwest quarter of the excavation area, sandy, lighter-colored soils similar to those observed in the eastern half of the excavation area were noted directly beneath the mottled horizon at a depth of approximately four feet below the ground surface. Additionally, a lens of ash measuring up to 10 centimeters (3.9 inches) thick and 1 meter (3.28 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 8 feet) wide was observed near the center of the western wall of the excavation area approximately 1 meter (3.28 feet) below the surface. The heavily disturbed appearance of the soils and abundance of building materials in this portion of the excavation area suggests that the machine shop was backfilled with demolition debris when the building was torn down during the late 1970s. Visual Reconnaissance At the time of the reconnaissance, a large portion of the eastern half of the project location had recently been cleared of mature trees and other vegetation (see Figure 3), resulting in the deposition of a loamy and woody layer of organic material across the eastern half of the APE. This layer ranged from a few centimeters thick to over a foot in depth. The western half of the project area contained low, scrubby grasses, which afforded less than 10 percent ground surface visibility. Dense trees, shrubs, and undergrowth bordered the eastern and southern ends of the APE, and a shallow ditch containing utilities was present along the south side of Frost Avenue. During the walkover, 36 additional features were identified. Due to the contaminated nature of the site, artifacts were not collected. Several features associated with the former roundhouse were identified during the survey. Since the orientation of the roundhouse differs somewhat between the 1890 and 1891 historical maps of the project area, both depictions of the roundhouse are provided in Figure 3. Features 1 through 4 (F1 - F4) and Features 30 through 34 (F30 – F34) comprise exposures of poured concrete slabs located in the vicinity of the former roundhouse (see Figure 3). At the time of the survey, all of the concrete slabs were at least partially covered by soil, so obtaining exact measurements of individual slabs was not always possible. Two distinct slab types were identified. The first type of slab was very regular in shape, measuring approximately 35 centimeters (13.8 inches) wide and up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) long. These slabs were arranged end-to-end in a linear fashion and radiated outward from the location of the former roundhouse turntable. Features 30 through 31 are four such sets of slabs that are roughly parallel with each other and measure approximately 2.4 to 3.0 meters (8 to 10 feet) apart. The distance between the sets suggests that they may have served as wall and/or partition sills between each locomotive bay. It was noted that the location of the former turntable appeared somewhat lower than the surrounding landscape, and contained a large cottonwood tree (see Figure 3). At the time of the survey, the western edge of Feature 4 was visible. It was revealed that the 10-centimeter (3.9- inch)-thick, linear slabs actually rested directly upon several courses of yellow brick with mortar that extended to an unknown depth. The second type of slab was noticeably wider and broader than its more linear counterpart, and appeared to bridge the gap between some, but not all, of the linear slab arrangements. These broader slabs may have served as part of the roundhouse floor, an example of which was present between Features 31 and 32. Areas were these larger slabs were noticeably absent between the linear slabs may indicate the location of former maintenance pits that were typically situated between the track supports in each engine stall to allow railroad workers to access the underside of the locomotive engines. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 11 Figure 5. Overview of Feature 37, facing NE. Courtesy of Bob Jensen. Figure 6. Cross-section of Feature 32, facing S 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 12 Features 5 through 8 (F5 – F8) are comprised of long, linear slabs of limestone arranged end-to- end that radiate outward from the roundhouse turntable (see Figure 3). Each individual slab measured up to 1 meter (3.28 feet) wide and 3 meters (9.8 feet) long. Abundant coal and slag fragments were observed around Feature 5, and window glass fragments and red and yellow brick fragments were noted near the southeast corner of the feature. An exposed edge of Feature 6 revealed that the limestone block rested upon a foundation of brick, mortar, and concrete. The more robust construction of these features suggests that they likely functioned as roundhouse foundations. Feature 35 (F35) comprises two irregularly-shaped poured concrete slab fragments located within the vicinity of the former roundhouse (see Figure 3). The easternmost slab fragment measured approximately 1.45 meters (4.75 feet) east-west by 1 meter (3.28 feet) north-south and 40 centimeters (15.75 inches) thick. The westernmost concrete slab was flush with the ground surface and measured approximately 90 centimeters (35.4 inches) square. Feature 36 (F36) (see Figures 3 and 7) is another roundhouse foundation exhibiting a different construction technique than the previously described features. In this instance, an approximately 20-centimeter-thick “cap” of small limestone fragments cemented together rested upon a lower foundation composed of either additional concrete or bricks encased in mortar. The northern and southern ends of the feature disappeared beneath the soil, and their end points could not be determined. Overall, the exposed portions of the feature measured approximately 89 to 95 centimeters (35 to 37.4 inches) wide and 25 meters (82 feet) long. Two distinct concentrations of railroad ties, identified as Features 9 and 13 (F9, F13) (see Figure 3), were identified in the project area. Feature 9 comprises a series of three in-situ railroad ties that are flush with the ground surface. The largest tie measures approximately 1.3 meters (4.3 feet) long and 29 centimeters (11.4 inches) wide. The location of these ties corresponds with east-west-running tracks near the southeast corner of the roundhouse as illustrated on the 1891 historical map of the APE (see Figure 3). Feature 13 is a pile of railroad ties located in the western half of the project area, many of which are no longer in-situ. Two features were identified in proximity to iron bins included as features in the CAD file provided by the City (see Figure 3). Whether these features are associated with historical or modern activities at the site is unclear, however. Feature 10 (F10) (Figure 8) comprises an area of blackened, and likely burned, debris that measures approximately 4.1 meters (13.4 feet) east- west and 7.2 meters (23.6 feet) north-south. Approximately 6.7 meters (22 feet) west of Feature 10, a small pile of various metal objects, including sheet metal fragments, bolts, screws, washers, and railroad spikes was observed. Feature 28 (F28) (Figure 9) is located approximately 11.3 meters (37 feet) south of Feature 10 and appears to be an area of melted tar or other similar substance that measures approximately 2 meters (6.6 feet) east-west by 1 meter (3.28 feet) north-south. The vegetation in this portion of the project area was low and scrubby, and a greater abundance of coal was visible on the ground surface. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 13 Figure 7. Feature 36, construction detail Figure 8. Figure 10, facing S 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 14 Feature 11 (F11) is a depression in the location of the site well as depicted on historical maps of the project area (see Figure 3). The depression measures approximately 3.1 meters (10.2 feet) east-west by 2.9 meters (9.5 feet) north-south and is approximately 60 centimeters (23.6 inches) deep. In 2001, the well was sealed in accordance with Minnesota regulations in an effort to protect groundwater resources (Minnesota Ground Water Association 2003:4). A small portion of the original well wall as well as modern reinforcing blocks were visible during the survey (Figure 10). Feature 12 (F12) is a small, grassy depression that is approximately 1 meter (3.28 feet) square and 5 centimeters (2 inches) deep situated in the southeast corner of the site. It is unclear whether this feature is associated with a privy formerly located approximately 24.7 meters (81 feet) to the northeast (see Figure 3). Several irregularly-shaped asphalt pads (Features 14, 15, 21, 24, 25, and 27) (F14, F15, F21, F24, F25, F27) were noted across the APE. These features ranged in size from 0.25 to 36 square meters (0.82 to 118 square feet) and are likely associated with activities on the property dating to the mid twentieth century. Feature 16 (F16), a partial utility pole, was noted in the southwest corner of the site. The remaining stump measures approximately 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) tall from the ground surface and 24 centimeters (9.4 inches) in diameter. It could not be determined when this pole was installed, and this portion of the site is obscured by tree cover on the 1940 aerial photograph of the project area (see Figure 4). Features 17 and 19 (F17, F19) are two square concrete pads identified along the southern edge of the APE. Each pad measures approximately 1.25 meters (4.1 feet) square and contains a slightly recessed center within which up to four 3-centimter (1.2-inch)-diameter bolts are embedded. Feature 17 is flush with the ground surface (Figure 11). Feature 19 has a beveled exterior edge, and is exposed approximately 14 centimeters (5.5 inches) above the ground surface. Feature 18 (Figure 12) is a concrete block measuring approximately 2.14 meters (7 feet) long, 61 centimeters wide (24 inches), and 25 centimeters (9.8 inches) high. It also contains a recessed center with bolts and is located approximately 5.5 meters (18 feet) southeast of and 6.5 meters (21.3 feet) southwest of Features 17 and 19, respectively. Although the function of these concrete features is uncertain, they are situated in the vicinity of a series of several small, unidentified structures visible near the southern end of the project area on a 1940 aerial photograph of the APE (see Figure 4). In the southeast corner of the project area, a grassy depression (Feature 20, F20) measuring approximately 1 meter (3.28 feet) east-west and 2 meters (6.6 feet) north-south was noted. This feature is in the approximate location of a combination storeroom and office building depicted on the historical maps of the site (see Figure 3). It was also noted that in the vicinity of the former storeroom and office building, trees were noticeably absent; this may indicate the presence of additional subsurface features in this portion of the project area. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 15 Figure 9. Feature 28, facing E Figure 10. Feature 11, facing N 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 16 Feature 22 (F22) is a vegetation-filled rectangular depression (Figure 13) that measures approximately 4 meters (13.1 feet) north-south by 2 meters (6.6 feet) east-west, and approximately 90 centimeters deep. A concentration of slag was noted in the vicinity of the depression, and, based on its location in comparison with historical maps, may be associated with a former brass foundry (see Figure 3). Approximately 4.8 meters southwest of Feature 22, another small depression, Feature 23 (F23), is present. This feature measures approximately 4.5 meters (15.7 feet) east-west by 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) north-south and up to 50 centimeters (19.7 inches) deep and is also in proximity to the former location of a privy located just east of the foundry. Feature 26 (F26) is a metal pipe (Figure 14) measuring approximately 28 centimeters (11 inches) in diameter and located in the northwest corner of the APE. This pipe is located immediately west of an access road visible on the 1940 aerial of the project area (see Figure 4), and may have functioned as a culvert. A limestone fragment identified as Feature 29 (F29) and measuring approximately 44 centimeters (17.3 inches) east-west by 36 centimeters (14.2 inches) north-south was noted in the vicinity of the erecting shop and turntable as depicted on the 1891 map of the project area (see Figure 3). It could not be determined whether this limestone fragment was in-situ or not, but since it appeared to be level with the ground surface, unlike many of the other limestone fragments observed across the site, it was assigned a feature number. Additional limestone fragments not appearing to be in-situ were noted just north of Feature 29. Other cultural materials noted but not collected across the project area included a large piece of sheet metal, decorative glass fragments, window glass fragments, water pipe segments, a horseshoe fragment, numerous yellow brick, limestone, and mortar fragments, and railroad spikes. One of the complete yellow bricks had “Evan & Howard, St. Louis” stamped into it. Along the southeastern edge of the project area, the landscape appeared have been built-up, and a distinct edge to the landform was visible (see Figure 3). Additional soil was likely deposited in this portion of the site in advance of track installation. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 17 Figure 11. Feature 17, facing E-NE Figure 12. Feature 18, facing W 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 18 Figure 13. Feature 22, facing N Figure 14. Feature 26, facing NE 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 19 Recommendations Due to the lack of formal evaluation criteria for archaeological resources associated with railroad operations in Minnesota, the evaluation criteria employed for assessing the archaeological resources associated with the Gladstone Shops of the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad was based on criteria established for archaeological resources identified during the Phase I and Phase II archaeological investigations of the Minnesota Rehabilitation Segment of the Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern Railroad Powder River Basin Expansion Project conducted in 2007 by Two Pines Resource Group, LLC and Summit (Terrell and Vermeer 2008:8-17 – 8-26). Relevant criteria are summarized below: Contributing elements to a NRHP-eligible historic district must be part of a building or structure that was owned and operated by the associated railroad company; their historic functions must be identifiable; and the resources must retain good integrity. Railroad maintenance station historic districts are defined as an archaeological station site that includes at least “an engine house feature, and a feature associate with either a yard office, worker shelter, or maintenance or repair shop” (Terrell and Vermeer 2007:8-21). Station sites must be associated with a historically significant railroad to be eligible for listing in the NRHP under Criterion A. Station sites may be eligible for listing in the NRHP under Criterion D regardless of the significance of the railroad corridor if at least one archaeological feature “1) can be confirmed as having been owned/operated by the railroad; 2) can be identified, based in part on its appearance, as to historical function; 3) has not been heavily disturbed by more recent development” (Terrell and Vermeer 2007:8-26). Research themes under this Criterion may include landscape history and development, technological change and adaptation, and social group identity, behavior, and interaction (Terrell and Vermeer 2007:8-24) Thirty seven features were identified within the APE during the archaeological monitoring and visual assessment of the site, including intact foundations and depressions. Of these, Features 1 through 9, Feature 11, Feature 13, Features 17 through 19, and Features 29 through 37 are identifiable as foundations or other features associated with the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad Gladstone shops and roundhouse, which were in use prior to 1951. Features 12, 20, 22, and 23 are depressions that are indicative of the presence of subsurface features also likely associated with the Gladstone Shops, as is the sunken area in the vicinity of the former turntable. Additional archaeological investigation at the site, such as shovel testing and/or formal unit excavation, may provide further insight into feature identification, site integrity and development, and the ability of the site to yield important historical information related to railroad districts in Minnesota, including, but not limited to, construction and engineering practices and historic economic and environmental processes (Terrell and Vermeer 2008:8-240). The railroad corridor in which the shops complex is historically significant. If it is determined that the features identified during the survey are associated with the NRHP-eligible St. Paul and Duluth/Northern Pacific railroad corridor historic district during its period of significance, and if 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 20 they have not been heavily disturbed, they may be recommended as eligible for listing in the NRHP as contributing elements to the railroad corridor historic district and would be recommended as eligible as a railroad maintenance station district for listing in the NRHP under Criterion A. If site 21RAXXXX includes more than two features whose historical function can be determined, are known to have been owned and operated by the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad, and have not been heavily disturbed, the site may be recommended as eligible for listing in the NRHP under Criterion D for its potential to provide important information under the research theme of landscape history and development. If the subsurface components of the roundhouse where different technologies would have been utilized to complete engine repairs are intact, 21RAXXXX would also be recommended as eligible for listing in the NRHP under Criterion D for its potential to provide important information under the research theme of technological change and adaptation, regardless of the significant of the railroad corridor. In addition, if structural remains and artifact deposits associated with the office and/or privies be identified beneath the ground surface, the site would also be recommended as eligible for listing in the NRHP under Criterion D for its potential to provide important information under the research theme of social group identity, behavior, and interaction, regardless of the significance of the railroad corridor. If you have any questions or require additional information, feel free to contact me at the phone number or e-mail address provided below. Sincerely, Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. Laurie Ollila, M.A., RPA Principal Investigator 651-245-1788 lollila@summite.com 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops July 30, 2012 Page 21 References Cited Archaeo-Physics, LLC 2012 “Gladstone Shops of the St. Paul and Duluth R.R.” Available online at http://www.archaeophysics.com/gladstone/index.html. Bradley, Betsy H. 2006The Transportation Corridor Between St. Paul and Duluth. Prepared by URS Corporation for BNSF Railway Company, Fort Worth, Texas. Minnesota Ground Water Association 2003 “MDH, City of Maplewood, and Well Contractor Dig Deep to Find Abandoned Railroad Well.” In Minnesota Groundwater Association, Volume 22, Number 1. Available online at www.mgwa.org. Northern Pacific Railway 1915 “Plan of Shops at Gloster, Minn.” 1”=50.’ Office of Chief Engineer, St. Paul, Minnesota. Schwietz, William T. 1977The Gladstone Shops of the St. Paul and Duluth R.R. St. Paul, Minnesota. Terrell, Michelle M. and Andrea C. Vermeer 2008Phase I and II Archaeological Investigations of the Minnesota Rehabilitation Segment of the Powder River Basin Expansion Project. Prepared for the Surface Transportation Board, Washington D.C. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com September 28, 2012 Virginia Gaynor City of Maplewood Parks and Recreation Department 1830 County Road B East Maplewood, MN 55109 Re:Addendum for theArchaeological Monitoring and Visual Assessment for the Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve and Gloster Park Project, City of Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota. Summit Project Number 2161-0001 Dear Ms. Gaynor: In June and July of 2012, Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. (Summit) completed archaeological monitoring and visual assessment for the Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve and Gloster Park Project for the City of Maplewood, as referenced above (Ollila 2012). During the investigation, one historical site, 21RAXXXX (Gladstone Shops) was identified. Thirty-seven features, including foundations, depressions, and other surface features were recorded within the Gladstone Preserve (Figure 1). In August of 2012, Summit was notified that excavation activities related to trail installation in the park had unearthed abundant building debris fragments in the vicinity of the railroad roundhouse. Per your request, an additional site visit was conducted to assess site damage and the impact of the disturbance on overall site integrity. PD ROJECTESCRIPTION The Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve encompasses a 24-acre parcel located in the southwest corner of Frost Avenue and English Street in Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota, which was formerly occupied by the Gladstone Shops of the St. Paul and Duluth Railroad from the late-nineteenth to the early-twentieth centuries. The initial archaeological monitoring and visual assessment was conducted as part of the soil remediation plan in advance of stormwater system and trail installation, seeding, and planting. Following the completion of these activities, the historical interpretation and preservation of the site and the development of site design features will be incorporated. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops September 28, 2012 Page 2 VA ISUAL SSESSMENT A visual assessment of the site following the aforementioned excavation activities was conducted by Laurie Ollila, Principal Investigator, and Bob Jensen of the Maplewood Area Historical Society in September of 2012. During the assessment, it was observed that a 2 to 4 meter (6.6 to 13.2 foot) wide swath had been excavated in the locations of the trail segments across several portions of the site. Immediately west of a trail segment in the northeast corner of the site, four large push piles of building debris, designated A through D, were present (see Figure 1). These piles are described in detail below. Disturbance to the remaining portions of the site appeared to be minimal. Push Pile A measured approximately 8 meters (26.2 feet) west-to-east by 4 meters (13.1 feet) north-to-south and approximately one meter (3.3 feet) high and was situated just north of the former turntable (see Figure 1). It was primarily comprised of large concrete, brick, and limestone foundation fragments. These fragments bore resemblance to portions of the roundhouse foundation identified during previous fieldwork at the site (Figure 2) (Ollila 2012). Push Pile B measured approximately 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter and one meter (3.3 feet) high and contained mostly soil, with a few small fragments of brick, limestone, and concrete. This pile was situated just northwest of the former turntable (see Figure 1). Push Pile C, located near the northeast corner of the former roundhouse (see Figure 1), contained a high percentage of limestone fragments exhibiting beveled (finished) edges (Figure 3). Concrete fragments were also abundant in this pile, which measured approximately 7 meters (23 feet) west-to-east by 3 meters (9.8 feet) north-to-south and 0.6 meters (2 feet) high. Push Pile D measured approximately 5 meters (16.4 feet) in diameter and 0.6 meters (2 feet) high. It was situated near the south end of the former roundhouse (see Figure 1) and contained several large slabs of limestone (Figure 4). Other large limestone slabs tentatively identified as roundhouse foundations were identified in the vicinity of this push pile during previous fieldwork at the site (Ollila 2012:11). The contractor noted that the actual depth of the excavation activities had varied across the site depending on soil conditions, and that in some instances the excavation extended several feet below the ground surface. The contractor also stated that no attempt to separate the building debris by material type had been made during its removal; rather the soil and debris had simply been pushed into piles just outside of their general location of origin. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops September 28, 2012 Page 4 Figure 2. Example of foundation fragment observed in Push Pile A Figure 3. Example of limestone fragment with beveled edge 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops September 28, 2012 Page 5 Figure 4. Overview of Push Pile D, facing west R ECOMMENDATIONS Previous investigations at the site identified several features in the vicinity of the trail segments and area of disturbance. The presence of building debris and foundation fragments similar in nature to and in the general locations of the previously identified features associated with the roundhouse suggests that excavation activities likely disturbed portions of the roundhouse foundation, though the actual damage to the foundation appears to have been limited to the trail corridor. Some of the observed debris may have also been derived from activities related to the demolition of the buildings on the property during the 1940s through the 1970s (Schwietz 1977:7). Based on the limited scope of site disturbance and localized damage to the roundhouse foundation, the integrity of the site does not appear to have been significantly affected, and no further documentation or stabilization efforts are recommended at this time. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com City of Maplewood Gladstone Shops September 28, 2012 Page 6 If you have any questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. Laurie Ollila, M.A. Principal Investigator RC EFERENCES ITED Ollila, Laurie 2012Archaeological Monitoring and Visual Assessment for the Gladstone Savanna Neighborhood Preserve and Gloster Park Project, City of Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota. Prepared for the City of Maplewood. Schwietz, William T. 1977The Gladstone Shops of the St. Paul and Duluth R.R. St. Paul, Minnesota. 1217 Bandana Boulevard North St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone (651) 644-8080 Fax (651) 647-0888 www.summite.com MEMORANDUM TO: James Antonen, City Manager FROM: David Fisher, Building Official, Chuck Ahl, Assistant City Manager SUBJECT:Election of Chair and Vice Chair DATE: October 4, 2012, for the October 11, 2012 HPC Meeting INTRODUCTION The Heritage PreservationCommission (HPC) ordinance requires that the chairperson and the vice-chairperson be elected by the commission at the first meeting in May of each year from among the members of the commission. The chairperson shall be responsible for calling and presiding over all meetings and shall be entitled to an equal vote with other members of the commission. If the chairperson is unable to attend a meeting, the vice-chairperson shall conduct the meeting. The current chairperson is Peter Boulayand the current vice-chairperson is Richard Currie. RECOMMENDATION The Commission should nominate and elect a chairperson and vice chairperson for 2012. P:\HPCElection of Chair & Vice Chair October 11 2012