Shakopee Snapshot: Spring 2025

PARKS & RECREATION New playgrounds coming to Shakopee A wide array of play options are opening later this year KILLARNEY HILLS PARK The City of Shakopee is developing the Killarney Hills neighborhood park at 1450 Tyrone Drive to serve community members in the Summergate Development, Emblem Apartments, and other nearby neighborhoods. The park design that was approved by City Council will create a meadow and pollinator habitat below the powerlines that cross the park land. The powerlines create special circumstances

wherein shade trees and tall structures cannot be placed below them. Outside of the powerline area, the design includes space for a playground, picnic area, and expanded trails. Construction on this park is planned for spring of 2025.

City Council recently approved the pictured playground structure, climbing blocks, mini dome, and merry-go-round for Killarney Hills Park.

JACKSON COMMONS PARK Jackson Commons Park has been in development by the City, in partnership with Jackson Township, since last year. Located near the intersection of Zumbro Avenue and County Road 78, this redeveloped park will have new paved trails encircling the wetland area, passive areas for bird or butterfly watching, a farm-inspired playground theme, and a bike skills course that’s friendly to all skill levels. The trails are already paved and open for use. The bike skills course and playground area will be completed later this spring.

City Council approved a rustic, farm-inspired theme for the Jackson Commons playground, including a barn tower and bumble bee house.

VALLEY CREST PARK The City is in the process of design approvals for Valley Crest Park at 1844 Ivy St. Pending City Council approval, Valley Crest Park will be developed later this year. The proposed concept includes a network of trails that would have play stations placed intermittently along the paths. An obstacle course-style playground area is proposed

for the main portion of the park. City staff chose the proposed playground elements based on community feedback received in a survey about the park that was open on Engage Shakopee ( engage.ShakopeeMN.gov ) for several weeks.

The pictured obstacle course-style play elements are proposed pending City Council approval and would comprise the main play area of Valley Crest Park.

8 Shakopee Snapshot