City seeks input on park plan design

For the past three months additional planning has been underway for a cost-effective way to increase use of the city park. The park is held on a 20-acre plot of land, it includes two softball fields, one baseball field, tennis courts, volleyball courts, a disc golf course and other public amenities. In December 2021, the City asked residents to fill out a short survey. The survey was completed 166 times. The feedback was used to help prepare the 20-year plan. The new park plan includes new features, like an entertainment park pavilion (donations were accepted by the Winthrop Lion’s Club), additional walking paths, removal of the baseball field (due to low use), additional parking, new bathrooms and public areas and new sustainable features including prairie walking paths. The plan also includes additional trees to be planted and a guide to help pick the correct variety for the park. Additional cleanup and improvements will also be underway early this summer. City staff will be utilized to paint, rake, and in some cases, reconstruct current features found in the park. Therefore, City Hall will be closed on Thursday, May 19, 2022, to get parks ready for their big season. The public is asked to provide feedback on the new park concept. This is a great time to have your voice heard on the public park. View the plans on winthropminnesota.com/ citypark and follow the links to provide feedback. Surveys and the map can also be found at City Hall. For any additional information or questions please email Michael Looft at administrator@winthropminnesota.com or by calling 507-647-5306.