Construction Updates and Timelines
There are three projects planned for 2024 - 2026 that tie together:
- Lakewalk project: Endion Station to Fitger’s and 21st Ave to 26th Ave
- Kitchi Gammi Park (Brighton Beach) project
- Harbor Plaza/Baywalk/Seawall project
Brighton Beach Project
Most of the Brighton Beach Project has been finished, but as of 9/11/2024 as indicated on the city’s web site: “This park is currently closed to vehicular traffic. A new road and parking will be constructed in 2024. Until that time, the Park is only accessible using the Lakewalk. Please click here for the most up-to-date information on the park status.”
Donations, grants, and funding opportunities continue to be sought by the city and Friends of the Lakewalk for capital improvements. Friends of the Lakewalk Board of Directors and our members, along with the public and other stakeholders, have provided input to analyze existing conditions, identified problem areas, and contributed ideas of needed park elements.
Harbor Seawall Project
A federal grant was received to create accommodations around Harbor Plaza and the Baywalk. These areas will be more inviting for those who visit and/or walk around the area. This project will create and define a new harbor plaza area by reimagining the use and function of the waterfront and Harbor Drive between the Minnesota Slip Bridge and Bayfront Festival Park. Design concepts include accommodations for the Great Lakes cruise ship industry, more intentional resting spaces, and improved walking and gathering areas. Hopefully, the grand opening will be later next year. Harbor Plaza/Baywalk/Seawall link is here.
Lakewalk Project to 26th Avenue
A US DOT RAISE Grant was awarded, and the pre-contract work is underway; $8 million from federal dollars and $2 million from City funds. The Lakewalk will be widened from the curve at the corner of the lake beach area to the memorial area. This to alleviate bottlenecks. Also, this section of the Lakewalk will be adjusted in elevation to make it all one level. ADA re-routes will be created for safety as well as accommodations for everyone who uses the Lakewalk. The Lakewalk will be rerouted to eliminate the steep grade at Leif Erickson Park. The city will participate in the roundabout project at 26th Ave E and London Road. Cliff mentioned the MN DOT wants to do some pedestrian/bike connecting hubs there. The Minnesota Historic Society grant for interpretation is pending. If granted, the funds will be used for interpretive signs around the Baywalk area and beyond 26th Ave E, possibly to Brighton Beach. There will be eleven pause areas along the Lakewalk.