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Depending on consb'uction bids and costs, some funds may be available to �` '�`�>"' '
<br /> expand the proposed trail system to include soft surface hiking trails -
<br /> potentially linking with the Wargo Nature Center.
<br /> GuITent plans are to connect the City of Centervilk with the proposed
<br /> park improvements via a paved bicycle trail. The traif will extend from
<br /> the planned City Athletic Site on 2ath Avenue, west along the south
<br /> shore of Centerville Lake, connecting to the picnic area and swimming `'
<br /> beach. The irail will move westerly fcom that point, along an existing gravel
<br /> ,� .
<br /> road past the Chomonix Golf Course, and along Aqua Lane to the western .}•.: '- . g
<br /> entrance of the park at Lake Drive. The trail will provide a major �'�` °} �� . �� '`� °
<br /> pedestrian link between the cities of Centerville and Lino Lakes, and ..,�
<br /> connect with surrounding neighborhoods. �..
<br /> y�� , i�,
<br /> � '� - �;-.
<br /> Using income from the Chomonix Golf Course enterprise fund, confinued � '' ° .,.
<br /> h, ,�" -�.� ;
<br /> improvements to the cou�se are planned for 1999. A major renovation of '�' �^
<br /> the driving range will be underway next year along with a complete �, � �,:_
<br /> renovation and expansion of the clubhouse. The Wargo Nature Center is �•,�:� �, *:k=~
<br /> also scheduled for several interio� improvements and a new prairie �'�:,w� � � �' ���' " ��.�,�:
<br /> interpretive center is being planned. The nature center, located on a �� � - ��'� �
<br /> wooded peninsula overlooking George Watch Lake, provides a variety of ;' ,�y�� ���'� �' � ,�
<br /> environmentally oriented programs and acfivfies to families, schools, ciwc '�!���,�'� �� ��'��� � �� � � �'��'"
<br /> groups, and others. Originally established in 1993, the center has served "�„ w "''' "' ,, � ,
<br /> over 200,000 visitors in the last five years. The center strives for con�nual A� example of the types of trails being planned for the park.
<br /> improvement of services and welcomes donations of time or resources to
<br /> meet the growing needs of the Anoka County area.
<br /> Project Timeline
<br /> Anoka Couniy is cunently at the beginning stages of the grant project. Master pla�ning will begin with a thorough analysis of the natural, cultural, and historic resources
<br /> of the park. Several concept plans will be devefoped reflecting the different design senarios for the park. The general public will be invited to public meetings to provide
<br /> input on facility needs and park design. These meetings will occur during the months of January or February 1999.
<br /> Once a final plan has been adopted by the Counry Board (May,or June 1999} work will begin on plans and specifications for construction. The majority of improvements
<br /> will be completed by the spring of 2000, in time for the camping, picnicking, and swimming season. The County will be closely cooperating with the adjoining cfies
<br /> (including the City of Centerville) on future development and park access. This will ensure continuity in planning, avoid duplicafion of facilifies, and lead to the most efficient
<br /> use of public funds.
<br /> In the end, the reside�ts of Centerville and the surrounding communities, will be well served by the planned improvements to the Rice Greek Chain of Lakes Regional
<br /> Park Reserve. Park visitors will enjoy smooth level roadways, fully accessible facilities, an aesthetic and functional park design, and wise protection of the park's natural
<br /> resources. Bicycling, swimming, hiking, and picnicking will be within a few minutes reach - whether by automobile, bicycle, or on foot. The park will confinue to serve as
<br /> a posifire asset for the citizens of Centerville by enhancing property vafues, preserving resources, and providing for healthy {ifestyle opportunities.
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