Council accepts preferred East Community Park concept; county to contribute $400,000

Parks staff presented the preferred master-plan concept for East Community Park at the Sept. 10 meeting, describing a blended design that takes favored elements from two public concepts. The recommended plan emphasizes trails and connectivity, a four-season restroom, an overlook and plaza, expanded dog-park space (more than two acres for large-dog play plus a small-dog area), and community garden plots designed for 30 plots with room to expand to 60.

Staff noted substantial public engagement — more than 200 comments in an online survey and outreach including postcards and pop-up events — and said the design leans into the property’s farming history and environmental learning opportunities. The plan includes improvements for shoreline restoration, three proposed fishing spots and a kayak launch to improve water access; staff said the lake is not intended to be a swim site but habitat and access improvements could expand recreational use.

Funding and timeline: Parks staff said Dakota County is expected to contribute about $400,000 toward the North Creek Greenway connection and the four-season restroom. The city intends to finalize the master plan by December and move to design and bidding over winter with construction targeted to begin in 2026 and park opening around 2027.

Council questions focused on community garden operations, dog-park sizing compared with Ritter Farm Dog Park, and year-round restroom maintenance. Staff said community garden plots would be reserved via a reservation system (first right of refusal for returning plot holders), that raised beds for accessibility will be explored, and that maintenance would be handled by parks staff with seasonal cleanup assistance.

Public-commenters and council members praised connectivity, access and recreation additions and encouraged staff to refine details. Staff will return with a final master plan and cost estimates later this year.