Completed Projects

The City of Elk River has several major projects that are currently underway, or have recently been completed. 

Active Elk River

On November 6, 2018. voters overwhelmingly decided to invest in city amenities that will benefit every generation. The Active Elk River plan passed with 6,830 votes of support and 3,702 opposed. The plan uses low-interest bonds to pay for the improvements with a one-half of one percent sales tax. The plan included the following upgrades, which are now all completed:

  1. A multipurpose recreational facility that includes two full-size ice rinks, meeting and event space, a 30,000 square-foot field house, concessions, and a new Senior Activity Center.
  2. Rehabilitation of Lake Orono that improves water quality and expands wildlife.
  3. Revitalized Orono Park and added new amenities such as an expanded beach, splash pad, pickleball courts, and modern restrooms.
  4. Improvements at Lion John Weicht Park that included lighted ball fields, modern restrooms, concessions, and a 100-person pavilion.
  5. And lastly, upgraded the Youth Athletic Complex.

Comprehensive Plan Update

In September 2021, Elk River City Council approved the Comprehensive Plan Update, which serves as a 10-20-year roadmap for local elected officials to reference when making important decisions about development, transportation, parks and so much more. 

View the updated plan here.

Lake Orono Restoration and Enhancement Project (LORE)

The Lake Orono Restoration and Enhancement (LORE) project has been completed and allows residents the ability to enjoy the lake with some deeper areas and improved shorelines. 

In total, dredging removed just over 140,000 cubic yards of material from various locations within both the upper and lower portions of the lake. Shoreline restoration was completed along the point off Simonet Drive and along the west shoreline of the Orono Cemetery. Both now have shoreline vegetation with deep roots that will protect these areas from wave action and future erosion. 

Full details on the LORE project can be found here.