Project Updates
2025 Winter Update
What’s new at lakefront park?
If you’ve passed by the lakefront property this fall, you may have noticed changes on the site! Specifically, a few of the buildings have been demolished and a new fence and gate have been installed. To see what things looked like before, you can view the virtual tour on the project website: https://lfplakefrontpark.com/virtualtour. Below are answers to a few frequently asked questions
Why were buildings demolished?
To acquire the property for a public park, the city received grant funds from several sources. Some of the funding sources do not allow for the purchase of buildings. Prior to accepting the funding and acquiring the property, the city had to determine which buildings would be demolished and which ones would be evaluated for preservation and reuse. Based on many factors, the city decided that the buildings on the northeast parcel should be removed. The demolition was required to accept the grant funds and is a necessary step toward making the property more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
In 2023, an evaluation revealed extensive damage to several structures, mostly from mold and moisture, and the presence of hazardous materials, like lead paint and asbestos, in several of the buildings. Based on this information, the city determined that the preferred action would be to remove two additional structures.
What’s next for lakefront park?
The city and its consultant team are advancing the design work and applying for permits. The city is also continuing to fundraise for the eventual park construction. As the design continues to develop, the city and consultant are identifying ways to streamline construction and long-term maintenance costs. Over the next several months, you can view updates on the project website and at the city’s booth at upcoming community events.
Can we see what the park looks like now?
Yes! An updated virtual tour has been added to the project website so that community members can see how the project is beginning to take shape. Check the website or sign up for email updates to be notified when new content is posted.
Can parts of the building be salvaged?
Yes! The buildings were demolished using a process called “deconstruction.” In deconstruction, materials that can be recycled are carefully removed and stockpiled for later reuse. On the lakefront property, old growth wood, fixtures, and brick were the main materials recovered. The deconstruction work yielded roughly twelve palettes of brick (nearly 7,000 bricks) and eight palettes of wood (an estimated 5,000 board-feet of clear fir and cedar plank). This material will be reused in the construction of the new park, community center building, park restroom, and picnic shelter.