Name a new park

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Here’s a chance to make one of your ideas last for generations to come.

Name a park.

The Alexandria City Council and its park committee are encouraging the public to submit names for a new piece of land that was donated to the city in the 50th Avenue South Park Addition last November.

The 56-acre site is located west of the railroad tracks near the proposed site of a new high school.

According to the charitable pledge agreement the city made with the landowner, the city must use the property purely for conservation purposes, such as walking paths, cross-county ski trails, environmental learning and picnic areas. Some of land may also be used to plant trees.

The property has some low-lying areas but it’s scenic, with natural wetlands, big trees and nice views of the countryside.

And it will stay that way.

As part of the agreement, no development is allowed. There won’t be any ball fields, tennis courts or playground equipment – just trails, viewing stands to enjoy the vistas and perhaps a bench or two for walkers to rest, according to city leaders.

If a high school is built near by, the park could also serve as an environmental classroom for science students.

Those with ideas for naming the park are asked to drop off or mail their suggestions to Alexandria City Hall, 704 Broadway, Alexandria, MN 56308 or call (320) 763-6678.

Tags: local news, city council, news, park, environment