During a recent government meeting, officials presented the \"Preserve Play Prosper\" plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at reinvesting in Cottage Grove's parks and outdoor spaces. This proposal, which seeks community approval for a $36 million investment, is the first capital parks referendum in over 40 years, with the last one occurring in 1984.

The plan is based on extensive community feedback gathered over the past decade through various surveys, including the most recent \"Reimagined Recreation\" survey conducted in 2022. The proposal outlines three key projects designed to enhance the local parks and recreation system.

The first project focuses on Hamlet Park, Cottage Grove's oldest and largest park, with a proposed investment of $17 million. Planned upgrades include new playground equipment, a four-season recreational building, a splash pad, a skateboard park, an amphitheater, and a synthetic turf sports field. Additionally, the project aims to complete the south baseball park complex and improve surrounding roads and trails.

The second project involves the development of a new 33.3-acre nature-based park at Mississippi Dunes Park, with a budget of $13 million. This initiative aims to restore natural habitats, enhance shoreline access for recreational activities such as canoeing and fishing, and create walking and hiking trails. The park will also feature a nature-based playground and an interpretive learning center.

The third project proposes transforming the River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center into a year-round recreation destination. This includes the addition of multi-sport simulators, a Himalayan golf green, pickleball courts, and a winter mountain biking course. The plan also emphasizes upgrading facilities to improve food and beverage services for events.

Officials emphasized that the plan reflects a long-term vision for the community, aiming to provide diverse recreational opportunities that cater to residents' desires while ensuring responsible investment in public spaces. The community will soon have the chance to vote on this significant initiative, which promises to enhance the quality of life in Cottage Grove.