Park Improvement Projects

Background

Three parks have been selected for improvement or development in 2024.  All of the projects are being developed by a Consultant Landscape Architect.  The projects will be bid in the Spring with construction expected in the Summer and substantial completion by Fall of 2024.

Area 21 Park

This Park is located off of 117th Avenue and is an assemblage of lots from currently 3 developments including Brayburn Trails, Brayburn East and Sundance Greens.   There is a fourth quarter that has been identified, but this area has not been developed yet. Park Commission asked for a master plan for the 4 parcels of land with a plan of phasing the development as the land is deeded to the City. The Phase 1 will be the 2 lots deeded to the City to the North of the assemblage. A neighborhood Open House will be arranged for resident input regarding features and amenities, details will be posted on the City’s Social media accounts and website.

Cypress Cove/Ione Gardens

This park was taken on by the City in 2023 and is being reimagined with improved landscaping and irrigation installation and possibly a shelter structure.

Elsie Stephens Park

A high-level concept (see rendering below) was presented to the Park Commission.  After conducting a site visit with Commissioner several comments and recommendations were made to incorporate into the design.  A revised concept is anticipated in February 2024.

Water Trails

The City is waiting to confirm the award of $850,000 of Federal funding. Our original ask was $3,900,000 to install the complete project in 2024, however with the curtailed funding we are still able to construct an ADA compliant boat launch at Elsie Stephens Park. Staff are also working with the DNR to assess the feasibility of a partnership to incorporate an ADA compliant boat launch at the existing DNR landing at the confluence of the Mississippi and Crow Rivers in the Historic Village. This would allow a put in point in the Historic Village and take out at Elsie Stephens Park. Staff is working with an Consultant to develop plans and specifications for bidding in the Spring and Construction in the Summer with substantial completion by Fall of 2024.