LATE ADDITION: 2025.09.01 PRC support for the gateway trail v2Draft Letter of Support for the Gateway Tra i l
Extension
From the Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee to the Scandia
City Council
Dear Honorable Members of the Scandia City Council
On behalf of the Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee, we are writing to express our
enthusiastic support for the proposed extension of the Gateway Trail along Oakhill Road.
This initiative represents a meaningful step toward fulfilling our community's long-term
vision for a safe, scenic, and accessible trail system that connects Scandia to the broader
regional network —from Pine Point Park through William O'Brien State Park, and ultimately
to the Munger Trail serving northern and western Minnesota.
We are grateful for the current funding opportunity, which is essential to advancing this
vision. While short-term challenges may arise, it is important that each community take
strategic steps to contribute to the broader, long-term plan.
The Committee acknowledges that trail development is a long-term undertaking. While this
segment may seem modest relative to the broader state trails plan, it represents a critical
connection in creating a scenic corridor to William O'Brien State Park and serves as a key
building block within the larger regional trail system.
We understand there may be funding gaps in the original LCCMR grant. However, we are
encouraged by the willingness of agencies such as the Minnesota DNR to help bridge those
gaps and support the project's completion —without placing additional financial burden on
local taxpayers.
The Gateway Trail extension will complement and enhance Scandia's local parks system
and highlight the natural beauty of Scandia. It will improve accessibility to our centralized
park amenities and the new Water Tower Barn near the community center and attract
visitors who support local businesses.
We respectfully urge the City Council to take a strong and proactive stance in favor of the
trail extension. This is a pivotal moment where leadership and advocacy can shape
Scandia's future in lasting and meaningful ways.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our community and for your thoughtful
consideration of this important initiative. The Parks and Recreation Committee stands
ready to support the City Council in any way we can.
With respect and appreciation,
The Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee