09.03 - Master Park Plan - Laserfiche WebLink

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HISTORIC FIRE TOWER Assessment: The Historic Fire Tower is located on a 40 acre parcel of property approximately 3/4 mile from the center of Pequot Lakes. The Fire Tower is actually owned by the DNR, but the City maintains the picnic area. Park amenities include picnic tables, a barbeque stand, a paved parking lot, and a walking trail that leads to the fire tower. The tower has been recently closed by the DNR due to safety reasons. There is a local group working with the DNR to repair and maintain the tower with the hopes of reopening the tower as soon as possible. Funds are currently being raised through the Pequot Lakes Historical Society for this project. The DNR has agreed to maintain ownership of the tower and provide insurance when it is opened. Proposed Improvements: • Replace and/or repair stairs or platforms as necessary • Improve walking trail from parking lot to the tower • Locate a cap (top part of tower) that can be placed in the area for visitors to enter without climbing to top Future Parks Planning: It is a current goal of the Park Commission to improve the existing parks, trails and open spaces. Another focus of the Park Commission is to study the possibility of connecting snowmobile, bike, and walking trails. The Park Commission continues to protect scenic views and natural beauty in the City and to study the possibility of expanding its park system by studying the options of obtaining prime park locations and high quality natural resource lands. The Park Commission adopted a Park and Open Space Land Acquisition Policy which is used by the City to determine when it is appropriate and in the City's best interest to acquire park land. (EXHIBIT B)