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Anoka, Minnesota Set to Make Waves with New Whitewater Surf Park

Kayakers ride a wave at a new whitewater surf park.

Anoka, Minnesota, is embarking on an ambitious $51 million project to redevelop the historic Rum River Dam, with a centerpiece feature being a state-of-the-art whitewater surf park. This initiative aims to transform the city’s downtown area into a unique river recreation tourism destination, potentially boosting the local economy.

Key Takeaways

  • Anoka plans to build a whitewater surf park as part of a $51 million Rum River Dam redevelopment.
  • The project includes a navigation lock, fish passage, dam modernization, and a pedestrian bridge.
  • The surf park is intended to make Anoka a unique river recreation tourism destination.
  • The city has secured $10.1 million in state grants but faces a lawsuit over a $6.2 million grant.
  • Construction is tentatively planned to begin in 2028 and conclude in 2030.

A New Wave of Recreation

The proposed whitewater surf park is designed to attract kayakers and paddleboarders, offering a novel recreational experience in Minnesota. City renderings depict a long pool with rocks and trees, where artificial rapids will be generated. This feature is expected to draw visitors and generate significant revenue for the local economy, with similar attractions reportedly earning millions annually.

Comprehensive Riverfront Revitalization

Beyond the surf park, the $51 million project encompasses a broader revitalization of the Rum River Dam area. The plan includes modernizing the existing dam, which was originally built in 1853 and rebuilt in 1969. A key component is a navigation lock that will allow boats to travel between the Mississippi River and the Rum River. Additionally, the project will incorporate a new fish passage to improve aquatic ecosystems and a pedestrian and maintenance bridge, enhancing public access and infrastructure.

Funding and Legal Challenges

The project’s estimated cost is $51 million, with $10.1 million secured to date, primarily through state grants. However, the project faces a legal hurdle. Anoka County has filed a lawsuit against the Minnesota Department of Transportation, seeking to block the transfer of a $6.2 million grant intended for the pedestrian bridge. The county alleges the funds were improperly diverted and that the transfer was orchestrated to finance a "pet project" at the expense of county taxpayers. Despite this challenge, the city is actively pursuing additional federal and state grants to cover the remaining funding gap.

Project Timeline

While the dam modernization project is currently in its preliminary design phase, the City of Anoka has set an ambitious timeline. The city hopes to commence construction in 2028, with the entire redevelopment project slated for completion in 2030.

Sources

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