WOODBURY, MN (WNN) – In this week’s ASK WNN, we’re focusing on the Woodbury Central Park Renovation Project.  Completion and re-opening are expected in the fall of 2025.

Bryan C. asks, “Why was it necessary to do the extensive remodel and addition of the Woodbury Central Park? How much did it cost residents?”

We’ll start with the second question first.  Woodbury Senior Community Relations Coordinator Jason Egerstrom tells WNN, “The total project cost is approximately $42 million.   A variety of funding sources were utilized, including $7.5 million in bond/grant from the state, reserve funds, various other grants, facility partner contributions, and a sales tax waiver. A property tax increase was not utilized to support the capital investment/renovation and addition for this project.”

It has been more than 20 years since construction, and the facility needed to address deferred maintenance items.

As home to the sixth-most-visited library in the state, Central Park capacity does not meet demand. 

The Lookout Ridge Indoor Playground needs updates. Woodbury officials said common concerns were the “old, worn and damaged equipment,” a lack of natural lighting, and a need for a separate toddler area.

According to Woodbuy officials, the project will:

• Address issues of maintenance and failing or inefficient mechanical and electrical systems.
• Enhance the welcoming environment to increase space for visitors.
• Add large multipurpose spaces that can be divided into smaller spaces for recreation programming and public/private meetings and events.
• Add capacity for senior programming.
• Update Lookout Ridge Indoor Playground.
• Add single/family user restrooms.
• Increase parking lot capacity.
• Increase areas for art.
• Improve accessibility  features.
• Maintain the greenery and water feature and improve lighting in the public gathering spaces.

If you have any questions about Woodbury, please ask us.

You can submit your questions via this link: https://woodburynewsnet.org/contact-us/

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