Exciting changes are coming to Klapprich Park!
The Wayzata City Council has officially approved a comprehensive plan to revamp one of the city’s most beloved parks.
The council’s decision in a 3-0 vote on July 23, 2024, paves the way for a series of upgrades designed to enhance the park’s facilities and overall visitor experience.
What’s Coming to Klapprich Park?
The approved improvements are extensive and aim to cater to a wide range of park-goers.
Here’s a breakdown of what residents can look forward to:
- New Playground: A 4,200 sq. ft. ADA-accessible playground will be added near the warming house, making it inclusive for all children.
- Expanded Parking: A new 20-stall parking lot will provide ADA accessibility to the play area, warming house, and ball field.
- Better Drainage and Irrigation: Upgrades to the park’s drainage and irrigation systems will ensure better maintenance and improve ice rink flooding in winter.
- Warming House Renovation: The warming house will see a significant overhaul with expanded indoor space, new restroom access, a fireplace, and more seating and locker space.
- Outdoor Plaza and Art: An inviting outdoor plaza with seating, portable fire pits, and spaces for public art installations will be created.
- Bell Courts Cabana and Stairway: The Bell Courts Cabana will be refreshed, and a new stairway will link Bell Courts to Klapprich Park, making it easier to navigate the area’s steep incline.
Budget and Financial Planning
The total estimated cost for these improvements is around $2.79 million. This figure will be included in the updated Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) at the end of 2024.
The city plans to manage this budget by phasing out certain improvements, evaluating bid alternates, and seeking additional funding sources.
Community Involvement
Residents have played a crucial role in shaping these plans.
The city engaged with the community through public meetings, surveys, and mailings, gathering valuable feedback that has been incorporated into the final designs.
More opportunities for community input will come as the construction plans develop.
Next Steps
With the council’s approval, the Parks and Trails Board, city staff, and consultants including WSB Architects and Hagen, Christensen, & Mcllwain Architects and will start creating detailed construction documents.
These will undergo further community and council review before finalization.
The aim is to open bids this winter and begin construction in spring or fall of 2025.
Conclusion
The upcoming improvements to Klapprich Park promise to significantly enhance its functionality and appeal.
Residents can look forward to a more accessible, better-equipped, and visually appealing park that will serve as a vibrant community hub for years to come.
