Chaska plans exciting new community park development

During a recent council meeting, officials discussed the advancement of the Southwest Chaska Community Park project, a long-anticipated development aimed at enhancing local recreational facilities. The park, located on a 55-acre site south of Big Woods Boulevard, is set to include a Miracle League Baseball field and a universally designed playground, catering to diverse community needs.

City staff have been actively engaged in the planning process, narrowing down potential consultants to assist with the project. After evaluating 12 to 15 firms, the city recommended Confluence, a landscape architecture firm with a strong track record in community engagement and universal design. The recommendation received unanimous support from the Park and Recreation Commission.

Marshall, a city staff member leading the project, emphasized the importance of community involvement in shaping the park's amenities. Plans include a comprehensive community engagement strategy, utilizing surveys and interactive platforms to gather public input. The process will also feature events like \"Parkapalooza,\" where community members can collaborate with designers to brainstorm ideas.

The next steps involve formalizing an agreement with Confluence, followed by a thorough analysis of existing park conditions and a market assessment to identify gaps in recreational offerings. The project aims to produce three concept plans for community review, ultimately leading to a finalized design that aligns with the city's growth and recreational needs.

Additionally, the project will incorporate traffic flow considerations to ensure safe access to the park, with engineering support from firms like Bolton and Manc, as well as Stantec. The city is committed to creating a park that not only serves as a recreational hub but also integrates seamlessly into the surrounding community.