06.03 Comprehensive Plan Update - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

downtown by providing increased opportunity for mixed-use development.Adding a built-in"customer"base by promoting new residences in the downtown while designing the public realm to have a strong pedestrian- orientation will allow a mix of businesses to be viable on a year-round basis.This approach will also make more- efficient use of existing infrastructure investments,which is essential if those systems are to be affordable over the long run. NATURAL FEATURES Pequot Lakes is a gateway to the Central Lakes Region.Long-time residents,newcomers,and visitors feel strongly connected to this north-woods landscape.Although population growth and improvements in transportation have the potential to boost Pequot Lakes' local economy, the City must remain cognizant to create economic development and expansion to align with natural features. Clean lakes,mixed forests,and diverse wetlands all contribute to the scenic beauty and character of Pequot Lakes.These natural features offer residents and visitors a tranquil respite as they provide habitat for plant and animal species.A deep respect for the natural environment is important to preserving it and future development that diminishes these resources can adversely affect what makes Pequot Lakes a special and desirable place. COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACES AND EVENTS Community gathering places such as churches and schools are an important part of the cultural fabric.In addition to providing residents with meeting places, they provide opportunities for citizen involvement in groups and activities that strengthen the community. Encouraging public art by students and local civic groups gives young people an opportunity to engage in their community,enforcing the concept that Pequot Lakes values its youth and takes pride in their education. Yearly festivals like Bean Hole Days,the 4�'of July Celebration,Chokecherry Festival,Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous, Cherry Car Show and Bands in the Park provide fun events that celebrate the Cit�/s heritage, bring together people of all age groups,and attract visitors from around the state. Pequot Lakes also has a tremendous asset with the Trailside Park area,the land between Government Drive and Front Street,adjacent to the Paul Bunyan Trail.To provide more benefit to the community,the park itself,which functions more as a central"square"than a traditional park,also needs some definition to make the space more usable. OPPORTUNITIES FOR A BALANCED LIFESTYLE In Pequot Lakes,people have the opportunity to live where they also recreate.The Paul Bunyan Trail, numerous lakes,and areas of publicly and privately owned land provide residents and visitors with a variety of active and passive recreational opportunities.The integration of recreation with everyday life prevails in the City and it is worth preserving, particularly as the population in Pequot Lakes grows and existing recreational facilities face increased pressure. A growing awareness of health and fitness issues points to a greater demand for recreational opportunities in Pequot Lakes. Comprehensive Plan Update-November 2018 6 � F a g e