The Cedar Lake Regional Trail connects recreational users with Cedar Lake Park, links Minneapolis' chain of lakes with the Mississippi River, and serves as a "bicycle freeway" for commuters heading downtown. Cedar Lake Park encompasses over 200 acres of land with an equal amount of water and is located less than two miles from downtown Minneapolis.
In 1988, a group of concerned residents formed the Cedar Lake Park Association to prevent the land from being developed into homes. The group raised $700,000, sought matching public funds to purchase the land, and has been instrumental in garnering support to turn their dream of an urban nature park into reality.
The Association, working in partnership with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, developed a Master Plan for Cedar Lake Park and created a bike, running/walking and skating trail that will connect to other trails, including the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. The Cedar Lake Park Association is now working to build an off-road alignment for the final trail section. The additional $5 million needed for the final section is being secured with $3 million in federal funding, $1.5 million in bonding from the Minnesota Legislature and fundraising for the balance.
Goal
Create a regional multi-use trail and connect trail networks