FOND DU LAC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Fond du Lac calls Lakeside Park its crown jewel.
City leaders think a restaurant, museum, board walk, piers and an outdoor performance venue right on the water will make that more true than ever.
The city says the park plan could cost $8 to $10 million. So far businesses have pledged $4.6 million. The city is planning a feasibility study to address questions, concerns and learn more about what’s ahead.
City Council President Brian Kolstad says the feasibility study will most likely take a year to complete. They hope to have enough information in the next few months to remodel the pavilion first.
The original Lakeside Park plan would have built a brand new pavilion. Wednesday the City Council voted to remodel the old one instead — saving more than $2 million.
City manager Joe Moore tells FOX 11 the renovations could convince people to live, work and play in Fond du Lac.
“From a business perspective its’s certainly going to help I think with recruiting and retention for our employee base here. I also think it will be a wonderful list of amenities for the people who live in Fond du Lac.”
City Council Vice-President Kay Miller says most people who’ve shown up to council meetings support the plan.
But she and other residents have some concerns. Miller tells FOX 11 she hopes many of her concerns will be addressed in the feasibility study.
“We are giving a prime location to a new multi-functional building down by light house peninsula. You would be taking away a lot of green space in that area.”
Melissa Hayes, a Fond du Lac resident, hopes the city thinks carefully about using that open area.
“That’s one of the best features here. Is there’s so many green spaces. It’s so nice for walking, and taking your dog for a walk or walking around.”
Overall Hayes says she supports the plan.
You can find all the sketches of the Lakeside Park plan here.
