Recreation Park and Campground Master Plan

General Description

A Master Plan for the Grand Marais Recreation Park is more than a design project. This 60 acres of public land is a resource for today and the future. The Park Board has embarked on a process to engage public opinion and consider residents, visitors, community organizations and business interests.

Organizational Structure

The organizational model for this project is a tripod - the Park Board as the working committee, city staff and the consultant. The committee is invested in the process and its outcome - it is their plan, not staff's or the consultant's. The committee will host four public presentations, with support from staff and consultant, as materials are developed to focus public reaction and comment. This process will build a Master Plan that has wide public involvement. In addition to these physical sessions to present and listen, local electronic and print media will present updates to encourage comment to the Park Board, staff and consultant.

Desired Outcome

The process is designed to generate a Master Plan which:

Will guide day-to-day operations, maintenance and capital improvements.
Respects the topography, landscape, harbor and shoreline.
Will enhance the experience of residents and visitors to reinforce the sense of place, reputation of the region and revenue to the City.
Provides a framework for physical improvements as resources become available over the years.
Is responsive to possible future land use changes - public work facilities, animal shelter, harbor, ball field, pool.
Is consistent with the Conservation Easement placed on these lands in 1996.
Is accepted and supported by the community, elected officials, City staff, other units of government, public agencies and Minnesota Land Trust as a result of an inclusive process.

Progress Updates

The Recreation Park Master Plan has been approved. City Council voted to accept the Goals and Policies and the Park Board recommended concept design September 30th, 2009. Thank you everyone who participated in the visioning and planning for the Rec. Park’s future.

Reservations: 1-800-998-0959 or 218-387-1712
Highway 61 and 8th Avenue West • PO Box 820 • Grand Marais, MN 55604
recpark@boreal.org