North Arm Public Access redesign

Planned improvements include: 

• Realigning the boat launch so that it doesn't require a backing turn
• Angling the parking stalls to make navigating the parking lot easier and safer
• Adding lake access for users in human-powered crafts like canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards
• Making improvements for shoreline anglers, including better accessibility, sightlines and lighting and "pods" that extend out into the lake to improve the fishing experience
• Incorporating climate and resiliency features, including redesigning the stormwater management system and adding solar 

Project timeline

• Fall 2024: Develop design and conduct community engagement.
• Fall 2024 through Spring 2025: Create construction documents and secure easements and approvals.
• Fall 2025 through Spring 2026: Construction, which will be done in phases and will prioritize maintaining public access during the busiest fishing and boating season.

Recap of open house held for the community in October 

Hennepin County and IMO Consulting Group held an open house for the community on October 4 to share information about the project and gather feedback on the initial design concepts. Ten people attended, including residents who live near the access and representatives from the Lake Minnetonka Association, Lake Minnetonka Conservation District, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 

Attendees shared feedback on topics including the access design, fishing, boating, parking, signage, and waste management. Hennepin County and the consultant team are reviewing the feedback, developing responses to questions raised, and modifying and refining the designs to incorporate suggestions. An update on when the modified plan will be shared with the community will be provided soon. 

Additional opportunities to provide feedback

There will be additional opportunities this fall and winter to learn about the project and provide feedback. Sign up for email updates below.