The Challenges
Our Aging Park & Trail System
Expert assessments found that many amenities across Prior Lake’s park and trail system are at the end of their useful life. To support and adapt to residents’ evolving needs, cities must reinvest in heavily used public amenities, including parks and trails.
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.
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Outdated and degrading ballfields.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.
