Silverwood visitor center will re-create look of the north woods

WHAT'S NEW

Last update: August 14, 2007 - 10:45 AM

WHAT'S NEW

The Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners has directed staff to proceed with design plans for the Visitor Center at Silverwood Park, which is at 2950 W. County Road E., St. Anthony.

DETAILS

The Visitor Center will look like a lodge in northern Minnesota, with plenty of natural wood beams, according to Michael Horn, senior landscape architect for Three Rivers. It will have lots of windows and include a large central fireplace, gallery space to display art and areas for arts programs. The center will also have a kitchen for catering support and will be able to accommodate weddings and other events.

COST

The Visitor Center will cost in the $7 million to $8 million range, according to Horn. It will be funded by the Three Rivers Park District.

PARK FEATURES

Now, Silverwood features a short hiking trail, a picnic shelter, canoe/kayak access, shore fishing and picnic areas. When work is completed, a central feature of the park will be an outdoor performance space. Audiences for smaller performances will sit on a grassy slope with trees around it; audiences for larger performances will sit on a large open lawn.

BACKGROUND

The Salvation Army operated a camp on the land where Silverwood is now located from 1921 to 2004. The Three Rivers Park District bought the property in 2001 but leased it back to the Salvation Army for two years. It has been open to the public for the past couple of years while Three Rivers has made plans for the space.

WHAT'S NEXT

Construction is expected to start next spring. Horn said that the first phase also includes roads, the amphitheater, paved trails and parking. He said a new bridge to an island near the north shore of Silver Lake also will be built.

WHEN WILL IT OPEN?

If all goes as planned, it will open in the summer of 2009.

MORE INFO

Go to www.threerivers parkdistrict.org and click on parks and maps.

SUZANNE ZIEGLER

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