Park Board Weighs Big Willow Master Plan as Neighbor Urges Preservation First
Minnetonka's Park Board is set to consider a final-draft master plan for Big Willow Park and a 2027 work plan, amid resident concerns that new creekside amenities outpace demonstrated need.
The Minnetonka Park Board is preparing to act on a final-draft master plan for Big Willow Park alongside a strategic plan and 2027 annual work plan, setting the stage for years of phased improvements along the Minnehaha Creek corridor that one neighbor has urged the board to reject as written.
The Big Willow Park Master Plan, dated October 2026 and prepared by consulting firm Bolton & Menk, identifies four focus areas within the park and organizes recommendations around four themes: connectivity, safety and accessibility, facility condition and program offerings. Recommendations are grouped into short-, mid- and long-term phases, with a design standards chapter and the results of a public survey that drew 344 responses.
The plan is intended to be recommended to the City Council for adoption, where its phasing would feed into the city's 2028-2032 Capital Improvement Program and future budget decisions.
Resident questions new creek access
Peter Brandt, a resident of 12817 Burwell Drive, submitted written public comment the day of the Oct. 7 meeting opposing development proposed in Focus Areas 3 and 4. Brandt argued that the city's own survey data does not support expanded access in those areas.
My central question is: Who are the proposed improvements in Focus Areas 3 and 4 intended to serve? The City's survey does not show a need for more access.
Adding infrastructure conflicts with restoring the area's natural character. The neighborhood supports low-impact trails, necessary safety and erosion work, and continued ecological restoration.
Other Topics from This Document
Park Board Strategic Plan and 2027 Annual Work Plan
Board reviews/finalizes its strategic plan (vision, mission, goals on natural resources, park/trail renewal, athletic facilities) and a 2027 quarterly work plan including Opus Station Park Vision Plan, Red Barn feasibility study, 2028-2032 CIP, Glen Lake skatepark, ADA assessment.
Big Willow Park Master Plan
Final draft (Oct. 2026) by Bolton & Menk presents four focus areas, four themes (connectivity, safety/accessibility, facility condition, program offerings), phased short/mid/long-term recommendations, design standards and 344-response survey; a resident urged rejection as written.
Information Items
Staff reports item listed on the Nov. 4, 2026 agenda; packet includes addenda noting public comments received after publication for Item 7B.
Upcoming Meeting Schedule
Staff report on upcoming Park Board meetings; the 2027 work plan lays out quarterly agenda items including a Q3 joint Park Board/City Council meeting and tour.
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