The Challenges
Our Aging Park & Trail System
Expert assessments found that many amenities and facilities across Prior Lake’s park and trail system are nearing the end of their useful life. Even with regular maintenance, features such as playgrounds, shelters, trails, and hockey rinks eventually require major updates or replacement to continue serving residents safely and effectively.
To support and adapt to residents’ evolving needs, the city must reinvest in heavily used public infrastructure and assets, including parks and trails.
Specific gaps, limitations and deficiencies
Amenities in need of repair or replacement:
Aging and deteriorating park buildings and other amenities
Aging, inaccessible and/or non-inclusive playgrounds
Unsecure pedestrian crossings
Trail gaps
Trail degradation and ADA inaccessibility
Outdated and degrading ballfields
A lack of:
Access to the beach and lakefront amenities
Trail connectivity to primary destinations and adjoining communities
Safe and adequate pedestrian connectivity to lakes and parks
Proper lighting, visibility and wayfinding measures for trails and parks
Adequate parking at parks and community facilities
Recreational amenities that meet present-day demand, including space for skating, fishing, tennis, pickle ball and other activities
