Tag: Joanna McCarthy

It is a portion of a $9 million construction project.

A month later, it has become the town talker.

Wayzata.com photo – July 29, 2020

“I know there’s a lot of talk in the community about that,” said Dahl during the Aug. 4 city council meeting referring to the construction of the plaza bathroom.

                                                     Wayzata.com photo – July 16, 2020

“I have received a few comments recently about the design of the project, particularly relating to the restroom which is currently under construction,” stated Dahl.

“Public restrooms were demanded by the business community and property owners as a part of our lengthy engagement process,” added Dahl. “Restrooms are usually ‘necessary evil’ when it comes to public space design. While they are needed there is never an ideal location for them.”

Plaza bathroom discussion during the Wayzata City Council Meeting 8/4/20

“One of the conversation pieces around the location of the restroom was also with regard to the relocation of the trail head and bike parking in the public ramp and close proximity to all those things,” said city council member Johanna McCarthy during the Aug. 4 city council meeting. “So, as I remember the conversation, that was certainly also a discussion point in terms of where we would locate the restroom facilities.”

The comments were mostly negative. A small sampling includes:

• “Absolutely terrible. No one wants to look at a latrine when you are enjoying $15 cocktails and a $250 dinner. Admit it is in the wrong location and move it while you still can.”
• “It looks ridiculous. Sit on the patio of COV, McCormicks & Gianni’s and enjoy a view of the toilet.”
• “Horrendous, the planners and the city should be embarrassed they approved this into their plans. The goal of the Lake Effect Program was to beautify the landscape of our incredible city.”
• “I would move it.”
• “I feel bad for the businesses that now have a view of the bathrooms instead of the beautiful lake.”

“The structure will be skinned in a semi-reflective material with a series of white ‘fins’ wrapping the structure to provide further articulation and tying it into the design of the shade structure in the central plaza. The reflective material will reflect the trees, lake sky and adjacent activities, further softening it appearance and further help it blend into its surroundings,” said Dahl.