At the December 17th Wayzata City Council meeting, the city celebrated a momentous achievement as the Panoway on Wayzata Bay project was officially recognized with the 2024 Minnesota Project of the Year Award by the American Public Works Association Minnesota Chapter (APWA-MN). Representatives from the APWA presented the award to the City, emphasizing the project’s transformative impact and excellence in public works innovation.
Public Works Director and City Engineer Mike Kelly introduced the presentation, highlighting the collaborative effort that made the project possible. “In October, the city submitted an application for the Public Works Project of the Year award, and we were fortunate enough to be selected,” Kelly remarked. “This project, including the lake walk, docks, and other improvements…” has truly reconnected our community to Lake Minnetonka.
Eric Lembke, Chair of the APWA-MN Awards Committee, and Jude Hale, President of the APWA’s Minnesota chapter, led the presentation. Hale expressed the organization’s appreciation for the opportunity to recognize Wayzata’s accomplishments. Hale stated the award showcases the vision, collaboration, and dedication involved in the Panoway project. It is a model for public works excellence across the state.
Hale elaborated on the rigorous criteria used to evaluate the submissions, including innovation in construction management, safety performance, community engagement, environmental sustainability, and the project’s overall value to the public works profession. “This project in and of itself, I can clearly, standard confidently tell you that this one checked all those boxes,” Hale noted.
The Panoway project’s vision centered on reconnecting Wayzata with its lakefront, overcoming significant challenges such as the presence of a 150-year-old railroad corridor. The first phase transformed Lake Street with a pedestrian-friendly design, including a lakeside plaza and enhanced access to the Dakota Regional Trail. Lembke shared his personal appreciation for the improvements, stating, “…the improvements make that such a more pleasurable experience for us to come from our community to yours, enjoy the restaurants and shops after we get done with our biking trips…”
The project’s second phase further solidified its impact by focusing on the lakefront boardwalk and community docks. The design emphasized environmental sustainability and innovative construction techniques, which were pivotal in navigating the unique challenges posed by the site’s proximity to the railroad.
The Panoway project was made possible through significant funding partnerships, including millions in private contributions. Lembke highlighted the city’s remarkable public outreach efforts, which ensured collaboration with residents, businesses, and regulatory agencies throughout the project’s development.
The APWA-MN Project of the Year Award recognizes excellence in public works projects across Minnesota. Panoway’s recognition in the Structures category underscores its innovative approach and lasting impact on the Wayzata community. As the award was handed over to Kelly, he humbly accepted on behalf of the team, saying, “On behalf of the entire team that did this, thank you very much.”
Mayor Johanna Mouton stated, “I wanted to thank you Mike. You have been an integral part of not only the city, but as director of public works and our head engineer instrumental in getting this project along with so many other staff members but well deserved and thank you for seeing this very one getting us our first award I know we’ll have many more to come.”
The Panoway project has not only redefined Wayzata’s relationship with Lake Minnetonka but also serves as an inspiring example for other communities aiming to enhance their public spaces.
