Supporters of a master plan to renovate and upgrade park and rec facilities in East Grand Forks presented their findings to the city council last night. The $37.4 million dollar investment focuses primarily on four facilities: The Civic Center…VFW Arena…Blue Line Club Arena…and Stauss Park.
Consultants say the goal is to transform participant and user experiences through upgraded amenities as well as improve efficiency and safety.
Mayor Steve Gander urged the council to keep an open minds on the costs moving forward. “Sometimes to get something done you have to spend a little more than originally thought. Whatever we need to do to scale it in the end to funds available we will be ready for that as well.”
Parks Superintendent Reid Huttunen says the plan represents public feedback that was obtained throughout 2020. Huttunen says it also sets the city up for long-term opportunities from everyday use to youth tournaments and beyond.
The council did not take any action on the report. A financing mechanism was not discussed although the city has floated the idea of a sales tax in the past. A timeline in the report suggests council action early in 2022 – with a January 31st deadline to submit the request to the state. An election could be held in 2023.
Pic: JLG rendering as supplied by EGF Park and Recreation
For full report: http://www.egf.mn/544/Parks-Recreation-Facility-Improvement-Pl
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