On Thursday, Oct. 5, Senator Julia Coleman (R-Waconia) joined members of the Minnesota Senate Capital Investment Committee and local officials to tour two infrastructure and development projects in Carver County. The group stopped in Carver County as part of the Committee’s Southwest Tour to visit regional projects seeking state bonding.
The Cologne Wastewater Treatment Facility is nearing hydraulic capacity and exceeds MPCA Effluent Phosphorus Limits. Left unfunded, the City would face significant user rate increases, potential moratoriums on growth, and the inability to meet treatment standards. Therefore, the City of Cologne is requesting $15 million in state funding to make critical wastewater treatment facility improvements.
“Carver County is the fastest growing county in the entire state, and within that Cologne is one of the fastest growing cities in the County,” Coleman said. “Cologne’s wastewater treatment facility is over 25 years old and urgently needs upgrades. This project will ensure that rates remain affordable for residents and accommodate the community’s growth.”
Additionally, Carver County is requesting $3.264 million in state funding for Phase III of the multi-phased development of Lake Waconia Regional Park. This phase would provide a picnic shelter, a new playground, trails, lighting, and site amendments.
“Lake Waconia Regional Park is the beach where I bring my boys to and where many families, from even outside the district, visit to enjoy our community’s beautiful lake. With childhood obesity and depression on the rise, I think this is a worthwhile project to get our families engaged and outside,” Coleman shared.
Phase I is now complete and includes site grading, utilities, parking and a new DNR boat landing. Phase II includes the construction of Paradise Commons, a new waterfront service center facility. Paradise Commons will provide event and classroom space with restrooms, rental equipment and enhanced beach access.
For more information on Lake Waconia Regional Park, please visit, HERE.