Residents of Dakota County and Apple Valley now have a fully connected and scenic paved route along the North Creek Greenway, thanks to the efforts of county officials and the local community. The Dakota County and City of Apple Valley leaders celebrated the completion of a series of enhancements on October 24, which finally closed nearly two miles worth of gaps across the regional greenway. This milestone marks a significant improvement for the greenway, which runs through several towns, providing a natural escape in the urban setting.
The completion was the fruition of a cross-jurisdictional effort that started back in 2012 with the goal to seamlessly connect Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan to Rambling River Park in Farmington. The newly finished sections were particularly vital for safety, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the 10 miles that are now complete without the inconvenience of detours or incomplete paths. According to a statement from Dakota County, Dakota County Commissioner Mary Hamann-Roland, who has also held the position of Apple Valley mayor, noted, "Part of what makes this community so strong are the ties that bind us, and that's why we're here to celebrate our North Creek Greenway."
Plans to bridge the remaining four miles of the greenway are currently underway, with design and development in process. The North Creek Greenway project is a shining example of collaboration yielding tangible results for the community. Apple Valley Mayor Clint Hooppaw emphasized the power of partnership in the project's success, telling Dakota County, "This is a great example of when you work together, and you work together well, you get a great outcome."
Funding for the Apple Valley section of the greenway, which amounted to $2.8 million, was majorly covered by Dakota County with a $2 million contribution. The City of Apple Valley supported the remainder with $843,000, out of which $400,000 were financed through the city's voter-approved parks bond referendum. Beyond connecting gaps, the project has also made pivotal safety improvements, including underpasses at critical intersections. Dakota County's dedication to combining utility with beauty is evident as Hamann-Roland stated, "Exploring Dakota County's greenway system should be safe and it should have an aesthetic experience for our visitors," highlighting the dual focus on functionality and the enjoyment of its residents.
