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during the summer. Ultimately,the road through this section is unnecessarily wide for two lanes <br /> of traffic and no parking and so having a "pinch point" at the trail crossing—with a concrete <br /> bump out on each side and the possibility for a center, protected median—would be a major <br /> enhancement. <br /> 13. The vegetation in this area of the park performs an important buffering function, but it also <br /> blocks the view of the active park area and the commercial section of Government Drive from <br /> the intersection.Trimming the lower parts of the trees in this area would enhance the views <br /> without degrading the buffer. <br /> Enhancements on the southern parts of Trailside Park are more long-term ventures that will require <br /> fundraising and dedication of city funding to accomplish over time. <br /> 14. This is the only viable place for events and public gatherings within the downtown. We should <br /> look at this area as the "town square" and configure it as such.The trees in this area should be <br /> moved to the sides and the surface should be graded to be relatively flat.Thought should be <br /> given as to how to make ongoing, seasonal use of this space to maximize its value to the <br /> community. For example, in the winter this would be an ideal place for an outdoor ice skating <br /> rink(not a formal hockey rink but a recreational, family skating spot). Structures for Beanhole <br /> Days should be formalized to have value year-round, with a more appealing structure and an <br /> interpretative marker. <br /> 15. Ultimately this area could be used for some type of fishing-related exhibit to build on the city's <br /> brand. It has been discussed in the past that the City should work with the DNR to secure a grant <br /> for a fish pond and interpretative exhibit similar to the one hosted by the DNR at the State Fair. <br /> The design of this space needs to be connected to the active areas one each side and the <br /> adjacent Chamber building. <br /> 16. A parking lot within the park is a tremendous underutilization of very valuable space. If the <br /> parking is truly needed, nearby land that is much less valuable should be acquired for that <br /> purpose.This area should ultimately be repurposed for something that creates more value for <br /> the businesses and the community. Something that would both draw people to town and <br /> provide an amenity for local residents within walking distance would be a splash park,which <br /> could easily be constructed within this area.This is a long-term proposition and, as such,there <br /> are many different possibilities that should be explored. <br /> Pequot Lakes Downtown Plan—Updated December 2011 20 <br />