Dayton Water Trail Project
Dayton Water Trails Project
The City of Dayton has been working on developing a water trail to provide residents with safe and ADA compliant access to the Mississippi River. In 2021 the Council commissioned a feasibility study to identify river locations that were suitable for a landing. Three locations were identified Elsie Stephens Park, Goodin Park, and the DNR landing in the Historic Village. Using the data from the feasibility report, Staff applied for Federal funding for the water trails project, our original request for funding for 2 landings was significantly trimmed back to $850,000 which altered the scope of work. Council commissioned MSA as a consultant to develop plans for canoe/kayak launches at Elsie Stephens Park, Goodin Park and the existing DNR landing in the Historic Village.
Staff have been working with several agencies who have shown interest in the project, most notably, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the National Park Service (NPS), and Three Rivers Park District (TRPD). All three agencies are currently partnering with the City to develop the water trail. NPS has made available $100,000 towards the project, the Dayton landings will be the first leg of National Park Services 72-mile Mississippi water trail which begins in Dayton and stretches to Hastings. The funding can be used for developing plans, and construction at any of the identified locations.
Historic Village Boat Launch
DNR currently has a boat landing in the Historic Village which they are going to redevelop to improve access for motorized craft. DNR expressed interest in including a canoe/kayak launch at the site as part of the refurbishment. Staff and consultants have been working with DNR to develop concepts and plans for this effort. Although Dayton is collaborating in the project it is fully funded by DNR. The intention is to bid and construct the project in 2026.
Goodin Park and Adjacent Property
Three Rivers Park District are interested in partnering with the City to provide an access point at their property that adjoins Goodin Park, which will ultimately be a trail head with 2 regional trails conjoining at this location. TRPD have recently been awarded grant funding for this effort. Staff and Consultants will begin work developing concepts and plans for this location in 2026.
Elsie Stephens Park
Elsie Stephens Park landing has progressed to the bidding stage, we have had a number of stakeholder committee meetings, interaction with Park Commission and Council, and several resident input initiatives. Each of these meetings has helped shape the plan for this canoe/kayak launch, Staff are currently awaiting approvals and permits before bidding and construction of the boat launch. Construction of the project is anticipated for 2026.
This project will both expand recreation opportunities in Dayton and positively impact the local economy. With more people spending time outdoors, and opportunities for recreation being an important factor when people make decisions about where to live, now is the right time to start building momentum on these efforts.
Elsie Stephens Concept