HomeMy WebLinkAbout01(A) - Update on Park Projects from Master Plan that are eligible for Park Dedication Funds and recommendation on top ten projectsType Park Low Estimate High Estimate Activity Recommended Funding Source(s)Park Dedication Amount Notes
Community Lakefront $4,000,000 $6,000,000 Maintenance Levy Replace playground, skate park, courts, parking lot and driveway.
Community Sand Point Beach $5,000,000 $8,000,000 Maintenance Levy Master plan.
Community Spring Lake Park $814,050 $814,050 New Levy, Park Dedication $814,050 New pickleball courts and amenities. Phase I cost of $450,000.
Community Watzl's Beach $300,000 $3,000,000 Maintenance Levy Master plan. Recommend removal of failed retaining wall and building demo in 2020.
Community New Athletic Facility Site $3,200,000 $4,800,000 New Levy, Park Dedication $4,800,000 80 acre land acquisition (based on $60,000/acre)
Neighborhood Deerfield $305,100 $0 Maintenance Levy Replace playground, site furnishings and shelter. Coordinate with Wilderness Pond Park.
Neighborhood Glynwater $502,200 $0 Maintenance Levy Replace playground, site furnishings and shelter, add basketball half court. Coordinated with Island View Park.
Neighborhood Island View $372,600 $0 Maintenance and upgrade Levy, Park Dedication, Grants $100,000 Add trails, boardwalk, fishing pier, circuit elements/stations. Coordinated with Glynwater Park.
Neighborhood Jeffers Pond $1,005,750 $0 Maintenace Levy Replace playground, ball fields, basketball courts, etc.
Neighborhood Sunset Hills Park $476,550 $0 Maintenance and upgrade Levy, Park Dedication $40,000 Replace playground, site furnishings and shelter, add full basketball court.
Neighborhood Wilderness Pond $341,550 $0 Maintenance Levy, Park Dedication $40,000 Replace playground, site furnishings, add full basketball court.
Total $16,317,800 $22,614,050 $5,794,050
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 168
Lakefront
Classification: Community Park
Size: 141.18 Acres
Location: 5000 Kop Parkway
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Amphitheater / Stage
Trails
Basketball Court – half
Amenities Court
Volleyball Court
Skate Park
Multi-Purpose Field
Ballfield
Tennis Court
Hockey Rink / Pleasure Skating
Parking
Description: This expansive community park is a prime destination for the local and even
regional community due to the variety of amenities and civic events that take place here.
It is located in close relation to the downtown Prior Lake and is adjacent to the Kopp
Farm community gardens and contains Watzl’s Beach. There are numerous active and
passive recreational opportunities.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 169
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 170
Assessment
Assessment: 48.1%
Overall Condition: The park is well maintained, but the age of the amenities combined
with the high ongoing use of the amenities has resulted in many necessary
improvements and full replacements now needed.
Design & Character: This park is the gem of the community with a strong connection to
the heart of the downtown area and a very appealing entrance sequence into the park.
The park has numerous natural resources that create a highly aesthetic park setting and
a wide variety of recreational amenities meeting the needs of numerous users. Overall,
there is a lack of adequate parking when larger activities are taking place in the park and
Watzl’s Beach feels very disconnected and hidden.
Accessibility: Almost all amenities are connected by trails, but some trails are steep, the
amphitheater area needs accessible seating, and various general improvements are
needed to improve overall accessibility in terms of compliance. Watzl’s Beach lacks
proper access and the playground has non-compliant sand surfacing with some rubber
access areas.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 171
Recommendations
General recommendations include replacement of virtually all trails, drives, parking lots
and developed amenities, reorganization of some of the amenities, and the
consideration of new recreational elements to better meet the needs of the community.
A community involved master plan process should be undertaken to develop an updated
site plan to accommodate the new and improved amenities. Some specific
considerations include:
• New playground – inclusive design
• Memorial climbing boulder – either
by the existing playground moved
closer to the base of the large hill
by the hockey rinks if a skate park
is relocated to the top of the hill
• Improved skate park either in its
current location or moved to the
tennis court location. Alternatively,
this may move to a different site
entirely
• Improved tennis courts in current
location or the location could swap
with the existing skate park
• If pickleball courts are not
developed at Spring Lake Park,
keep an overlay on the tennis
courts at this site
• Phase out the ballfield to remain as
turf lawn space with drainage improvements
• Consider an additional parking lot for improved access to Watzl’s Beach though
this would likely require significant retaining walls.
• New separate smaller warming house room, also used for programming
• Separate permanent restrooms suitable for daily park users not in conflict with
other park uses
• Improvements to existing buildings and rental spaces to include wifi, technology,
improved acoustics, code compliance & general improvements
• Consideration of refrigerated ice rink with covered seating and potentially a
pleasure skating loop
• Ensure drive and parking lot designs and construction accommodate heavy
trucks
• Potential splash pad (though Sand Point Beach is a better location)
• Look at potential to get 2 improved volleyball courts together
It should be noted that some previous improvements and developments were made with
grant funding and as such, have specific conditions that the City of Prior Lake is
obligated to adhere to.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 172
Estimate of Probable Costs
Due to numerous unknowns, an estimate should be prepared in conjunction with a
master plan process. The following are general estimates for just some of the listed
recommendations in order to understand some basic budgetary figures.
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include a new parking lot with retaining wall for Watzl’s Beach or any
Watzl’s Beach improvements
• Does not include numerous improvements to existing trails, buildings or other
items not specifically listed
• Does not include removals, restoration, earthwork, erosion control, etc.
Description Cost Range
Inclusive playground
$500,000
Skate park
$500,000
Double tennis court
$100,000
Basketball and hard court replacement
$60,000
Parking lot and drive replacement
$1,000,000
Warming house / restroom building
$500,000
New group picnic shelters w/restrooms (2)
$1,000,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$100,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$50,000
SubTotal:
$3,810,000
15% Contingency
$571,500
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$762,000
Total:
$4,382,262
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 173
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 218
Sand Point Beach
Classification: Community Park
Size: 20 Acres
Location: 514349 Crest Avenue NE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Boardwalk
Horseshoes
Volleyball Court
Fishing Pier
Beach
DNR Boat Access & Parking
Parking
Description: Established in 1976. Community park along the shores of Lower Prior Lake
with a special use for lake and water related activities. This site includes an adjacent DNR
boat launch with shared land use areas. Currently there is a fee for the beach parking lot
for cars, but not at the DNR lot for boats and trailers.
A recent project with the SLPLWD has utilized park space to accommodate a water
treatment area in the park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 219
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 220
Assessment
Assessment: 39.9% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is well-maintained but many amenities are older and in fair to poor
condition and are in need of replacement.
Design & Character: The park lacks an inviting and appealing design. It does not make
best use of the space available in terms of pedestrian and vehicular circulation and the
amenities are generally scattered around the site.
Though separate, the DNR boat launch area is not well designed which causes frustration
and difficulty for those trying to get watercraft into the water. The boat and trailer parking
do not meet the length needed for the size of trailers currently parked in the lot and the
entrance drive to the park versus the boat launch can be confusing.
Accessibility: Overall lack of accessibility. Trails are very steep in some areas and a lack
of trail connections to amenities. The parking lot does not have ADA parking stalls that
meet requirements.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing a master plan for full redevelopment of
the two sites with the DNR and community involvement to ensure the needs of
stakeholders are being met. It is also recommended that the city either account for a
park usage fee in lieu of a parking fee or get rid of fees altogether. Currently the site is
free to anyone who can walk to it, which are mainly middle to high income
neighborhoods, whereas the lower income areas are far enough where vehicular use
and the related parking fee would apply.
Some general considerations include:
• Reconfigured parking for DNR and park (account for food trucks, food delivery
services, drop-offs, etc.
• New concessions building with meeting rooms, storage, etc.
• New group shelters with restrooms (2)
• Improved lawn games (bocce ball, horseshoes)
• Improved volleyball (3-4 preferred for tournaments)
• Smaller open air shelters or shade structures
• Splash pad
• Inclusive playground
• Improved beach experience
• Loop trail system
• Improved docks and piers
Estimate of Probable Costs
Estimates to be prepared in conjunction with an updated master plan design. Generally
this may likely range from $5 to $8 million, not considering the DNR site.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 221
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 230
Spring Lake
Classification: Natural Park / Open Space
Size: -- Acres
Location: 15851 Howard Lake Road
Existing Park Features
Parking
Description: City owned property adjoining Spring Lake Regional Park.
Recommendations
General recommendations include the development of a pickleball facility south of the
entrance road and sell the remainder of the land as it is not well suited for a community
athletic complex as it was originally considered.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 231
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 232
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Pickleball estimate includes pavement, color coating, fencing, & nets but does
not include any potential soil corrections – geotechnical soils investigation would
be necessary
• Initial parking lot included, not full future lot
• Estimate does not include bringing in utilities, such as sanitary, water or electrical
• Assumes area in red dashed outline could be sold
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Pickleball courts (8)
$165,000
Trails / walks
$10,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, etc.)
$25,000
Drinking fountain
$8,000
Group picnic shelter – medium w/electrical
$100,000
Optional: Restrooms added to shelter
$150,000
Parking lot (approx. 50 stalls) – aggregate w/paved HC stalls
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$603,000
15% Contingency
$90,450
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$120,600
Total:
$814,050
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 233
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 238
Sunset HIlls
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 3.5 Acres
Location: 3205 Balsam Street SW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Ballfield
Description: Established in 1979. Small neighborhood park across from Spring Lake.
Park is older and due to ongoing flooding issues with older age, is in a poor condition
overall.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 239
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 240
Assessment
Assessment: 28.2% Rating
Overall Condition: Overall in poor condition.
Design & Character: Functional design with what initially had a lot of recreational
amenities placed in a small park space.
Accessibility: Lacking proper accessibility. Lack of parking by the park which is an issue
for anyone who is not within walking distance.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing a master plan with the neighborhoods
who rely on this key park due to a lack of other developed park spaces nearby without
major barriers. There may be potential to work with the watershed district for some
funding due to the storm and flooding issues affecting the park currently.
Some recommendations include:
• Unique, fun playground for numerous ages
• Look at feasibility of some parking stalls along the street (2-3) for improved
access
• Leave more open green space remove dedicated ballfield
• Remove volleyball court
• Add smaller picnic shelter
• Basketball court (full) with 4-square and hopscotch striping
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 241
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes complete redevelopment
• Does not include stormwater design or construction
• Drinking fountain assumes water in close proximity
• Does not assume any shared costs
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container (smaller)
$100,000
Full Basketball Court
$30,000
Trails
$15,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$20,000
Drinking Fountain
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$353,000
15% Contingency
$52,950
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$70,600
Total:
$476,550
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 254
Watzl’s Beach
Classification: Community / Special Use Park
Size: 3 Acres
Location: 15620 Red Oaks Beach
Existing Park Features
Beach
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: Hidden beach that is part of Lakefront Park. It is very scenic and located on
Lower Prior Lake in an area that is calmer, making beach activities work well.
Unfortunately, the long distance to the beach can result in users parking in the nearby
residential streets.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 255
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 256
Assessment
Assessment: 37.5% Rating
Overall Condition: The site is in fair to poor condition as it is older and in need of
improvements. The retaining wall failed in 2019, the existing building is not utilized for
concessions and more significant modifications may be needed. Some of the trails are
right along the slope edge leading to the water with edges that are failing. There is
considerable erosion along the concessions building.
Design & Character: While a scenic view of the lake, the beach site lacks character, the
site is very hidden and many people have difficulty finding it or even knowing it is located
here. The trails leading from Lakefront parking lots have a variety of memorial benches
which give it an eclectic feel.
Accessibility: The site lacks proper accessibility due to length from the parking lots and
the concessions building sits up on a little hill to stay above flood levels.
Recommendations
General recommendations include developing an updated master plan for a new site
layout, potentially without a concessions building. There could be a feasibility study to
consider bringing in a small parking lot closer to the beach, though this would involve
significant retaining walls and associated costs.
Estimate of Probable Costs
Prepare an estimate with the master plan. This could likely range anywhere from
$300,000 to $3 million dollars depending on if the site has basic improvements or the
development of a parking lot.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 257
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 264
Wilderness Ponds (see also Deerfield)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 20 Acres
Location: 16551/16598 Blind Lake Trail SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Open Lawn
Description: Established 1995. Neighborhood park development at the intersection of 2
streets and part of a larger wetlands complex that includes Deerfield park. This
neighborhood consists of single family to high density with a lot of children.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 265
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 266
Assessment
Assessment: 27.8% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is maintained well, but most amenities are very outdated and are
in need of replacement. The shelter has woodpeckers living it.
Design & Character: Small but appealing park with nice curb appeal and a scenic
woodland and wetland backdrop. There is a fire station across the street.
Accessibility: The site does not have any trails and therefore lacks accessibility.
Recommendations
Keep this park at a higher level of condition due to the fact it is serving a high density
residential area with a considerable amount of children in the adjacent neighborhoods.
General recommendations include creating a master plan for Deerfield and Wilderness
Ponds together in order to improve the recreational value to meet broader age groups
and to provide complementary features.
Suggestions include keeping this portion of the park focused on some amenities for
older youth to teens as Deerfield is more focused on younger aged children. This could
include some interesting play feature or challenge equipment that could also be utilized
by fire fighters and a full basketball court. Another consideration is if the skate park is not
rebuilt at Lakefront Park, consider relocating the skatepark here due to its high visibility
and location by a fire station.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 267
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Does not include costs for skate park
• Refer to Deerfield Park for additional costs for consideration
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$30,000
Removals
$10,000
Unique or challenge equipment, surfacing and container
$150,000
Trails
$10,000
Basketball Court – full
$30,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$253,000
15% Contingency
$37,950
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$50,600
Total:
$341,550
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 96
Deerfield Park (see also Wilderness Pond)
Classification: Neighborhood Park & Open Space
Size: 26.5 Acres
Location: 14100 Fish Point Road SE
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Description: Natural resource area with a small neighborhood park component containing
a loop trail system around a wetland complex. It is in close relation to Wilderness Pond
Park and both parks help serve a higher density residential neighborhood and single-
family homes with a blend of natural and developed spaces. The trails connect to The
Ponds community park / athletic complex.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 97
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 98
Assessment
Assessment: 39.6% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is maintained to a good to fair condition and most amenities are
in fair condition, though many amenities are older and will soon need to be replaced.
Trails are in good to fair condition and may just need sealcoating in the near future.
Design & Character: Small but appealing park with mature woods, wetlands and water
bodies that create a scenic and peaceful setting. The loop trail around the wetland is a
popular feature and provides connection to The Ponds. Updated amenities would
improve the overall recreational value for the surrounding neighborhoods. The trail
extending from the multi-family housing complex aligns with the park entrance trail but
the lack of a pedestrian ramp along the alignment makes this mid-block crossing difficult
and unsafe.
Accessibility: Playground has a trail connection, but the shelter does not. Playground
has sand surfacing with some rubber access. Only on-street parking available.
Recommendations
Keep this park at a higher level of condition due to the fact it is serving a high density
residential area with a considerable amount of children in the adjacent neighborhoods.
General recommendations include creating a master plan for Deerfield and Wilderness
Pond together in order to improve the recreational value to meet broader age groups
and to provide complementary features.
Suggestions include keeping this portion of the park minimally developed with a natural
resource based character by opening up views of the water, potentially adding a
boardwalk or deck overlook, and adding a few circuit exercise or play elements along the
trail.
The focus of the playground at Deerfield could be for the younger aged group with an
improved but smaller shelter and some grills with gathering space that many high
density housing residents lack. The more developed features could be incorporated into
Wilderness Pond.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 99
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Refer to Wilderness Ponds for additional information
• Does not include full trail repaving
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$30,000
Removals
$10,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$60,000
Trails (repaving and new connections)
$30,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Optional: boardwalk or deck overlook
$30,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$226,000
15% Contingency
$33,900
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$45,200
Total:
$305,100
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 116
Glynwater (see also Island View)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 11.9 Acres
Location: 3456 Glynwater Trail NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Open Lawn
Description: Originally established in 1998. This neighborhood park is tucked behind
residential homes and is conjoined with Island View Park along the north side of Arctic
Lake. A newly constructed community park on SMSC property is located to the west of
this park.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 117
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 118
Assessment
Assessment: 35.2% Rating
Overall Condition: Park is in fair to poor condition as many amenities are older.
Design & Character: The overall design of the park does not make good use of the
space available but the site is mainly quiet and peaceful with many birds along the trail
connecting the two parks together. The park is hidden and the trail entrance on the north
is confusing as the trail runs parallel to a private property drive, followed by the SMSC
community park trail, resulting in 3 parallel alignments. The close proximity to the lake is
a missed opportunity especially considering the SMSC park has a pier on the lake. The
open lawn space does not function well and is not inviting due to the placement of trees
in this area.
Accessibility: There are trail connections to the playground but not the shelter. The
playground has sand with some rubber.
Recommendations
Keep both parks at a higher level of condition due to the fact they are the only ones
serving this immediate neighborhood.
General recommendations include creating an overall master plan encompassing both
Glynwater and Island View parks together for a complementary and improved park
experience, making better use of the space available. Look for potential to work with the
SMSC to get a connected trail route around Arctic Lake.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 119
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes the park is redeveloped in conjunction with Island View
• Refer to Island View for additional information
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$75,000
Removals
$30,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Basketball Half Court
$14,000
Trails (repaving and new)
$35,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$3,000
Fencing
$50,000
New picnic shelter – small
$40,000
Landscaping and restoration
$15,000
SubTotal:
$372,000
15% Contingency
$55,800
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$74,400
Total:
$502,200
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 152
Island View (see also Glynwater Park)
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 4 Acres
Location: 3425 Crystal Circle
Existing Park Features
Playground
Trails
Description: This park development is also supported by Glynwater Park to serve an
isolated neighborhood and is fairly hidden behind residential areas north of Arctic Lake. A
newly constructed community park on SMSC property is located to the west of this park.
The park property does have an extension to the lake itself but no current pedestrian
access.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 153
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 154
Assessment
Assessment: 36.1% Rating
Overall Condition: Well maintained park, but older amenities that will soon need to be
updated/replaced.
Design & Character: The park design is functional and the tables and benches stacked
on the trail detract from the park experience. The natural resources and wooded
backdrop areas are very appealing. The close proximity to the lake is a missed
opportunity especially considering the SMSC park has a pier on the lake.
Accessibility: Most areas not accessible due to steep slopes.
Recommendations
General recommendations include creating a master plan of Island View with Glynwater
for complementary features with higher recreational value. Specific recommendations for
this park include removal of the playground and replace with open lawn, some exercise
stations or more unique play elements, new trails, a fishing pier on Arctic Lake and
coordinate with the SMSC to identify if there are opportunities to create a connected trail
system around Arctic Lake.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 155
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes the park is redeveloped in conjunction with Glynwater
• Assumes boardwalk is an engineered approach
• Refer to Glynwater for additional cost implications
Description Cost Range
Trails
$20,000
Fishing Pier
$25,000
Boardwalk
$200,000
Site furnishings (benches, bird houses, etc.)
$5,000
Unique circuit elements / stations
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$6,000
Landscaping and restoration
$10,000
SubTotal:
$276,000
15% Contingency
$41,400
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$55,200
Total:
$372,600
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 156
Jeffers Pond
Classification: Neighborhood Park
Size: 13.76 Acres (developed) / 147 acres total with natural resource areas
Location: 15122 Jeffers Path NW
Existing Park Features
Playground
Picnic Shelter
Trails
Boardwalks – Shore Crest
Basketball Court – half
Ballfield – Pleasure Rink
Parking
Description: Established in 2002. Part of a large natural resource complex, this park
provides both active and passive recreational opportunities. It is also used by the
elementary school for their educational programming. Trails and boardwalks create
multiple loops with connection to Jeffers Pond Elementary. The ballfield is suited for some
programmed athletic functions.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 157
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 158
Assessment
Assessment: 54.3%
Overall Condition: Overall, the park is still in good to fair condition, though the
boardwalks in particular are in need of replacement or more extensive repairs (especially
the Wilds Ridge area), the basketball court is in poor condition, and many amenities are
nearing the end of their lifespan.
Design & Character: The park is very inviting in both the developed and natural areas. It
contains ponds, wetlands and woods. Some slight modifications to the overall layout of
the developed park would improve the experience.
Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, but the court is not connected by trail and some
trails are very steep.
Recommendations
Noted as a key park for serving the neighborhood.
General recommendations include development of a master plan for reorganization of
the developed spaces to make better use of the space provided with better connectivity
for a high quality park. Consider a full basketball court or a half court with additional
bankshot play. Improve the ballfield with updated amenities and fencing to be more
suited for programmed play. Include a medium sized shelter suitable for rentals and
consider some permanent restrooms as part of the design. Ensure trail connections to all
amenities and to the trail on the north side along Jeffers Parkway NW.
Estimate of Probable Costs
The estimates shown are based on projects of similar size and characteristics and are
not based on an actual design or site unknowns. It assumes work is completed by a
licensed, bonded contractor shown in 2020 dollars with general contingency and design
fees, as applicable.
CITY OF PRIOR LAKE Section 4: Park System Plan
2040 Park & Trail System Plan Page 159
Specific assumptions and exclusions:
• Assumes the developed portion of the park is replaced with a new layout
• Does not include full trail replacement for the entire system around Jeffers Pond
Preserve, just the main developed portion (remainder of trail and boardwalks to
fall under trail replacement plan)
• Drinking fountain costs assume existing water service in park
Description Cost Range
General earthwork and erosion control
$100,000
Removals
$40,000
New playground equipment, surfacing and container
$100,000
Natural play features or trail circuit elements
$50,000
Ballfield improvements (budget)
$100,000
Basketball full
$30,000
Trails (new)
$35,000
Site furnishings (benches, tables, grills, bike racks, etc.)
$30,000
Drinking fountain
$10,000
Interpretive / wayfinding signs
$20,000
New picnic shelter – medium with restrooms
$200,000
Landscaping and restoration
$30,000
SubTotal:
$745,000
15% Contingency
$111,750
20% Design, Engineering & Permits
$149,000
Total:
$1,005,750