Summer 2026 Shakopee Snapshot

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

SUMMER 2026

Transforming Shakopee’s riverfront

What to expect along the way

20 years serving Shakopee Pearson named Police Chief Fun can be free! Discover affordable activities around the city

2026

FREE, FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT ALONG THE RIVERFRONT!

June 4 7 p.m.

Dirty Shorts Brass Band New Orleans–style brass band

June 11 7 p.m.

Mitchell Hall & the Tennessee Trio Johnny Cash Tribute Band

June 18 7 p.m.

The Tuxedo Band Cover Band

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June 25 7 p.m.

MN Valley Community Band Orchestra

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July 2 — No Concert July 9 7 p.m. The Jury

Rock/Blues All-Star Dance Band

July 16 7 p.m.

Indigo Moon Jazz

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July 23 7 p.m.

Prairie Potluck Bluegrass, Country, Classical, Americana, Gospel, and Folk

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July 30 7 p.m.

Michael Handler Project Cover Band

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August 6 7 p.m.

The Percolators Variety Music

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August 13 7 p.m. Concert Rain Date August 22 Dusk Movie in the Park Movie to be Determined

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T Huber Park, 150 Fillmore St. N. www.ShakopeeMN.gov | 952-233-9500 Schedule subject to change | Weather Hotline 952-233-9502 h e P

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

SUMMER 2026

CITY NEWSLETTER Transforming Shakopee’s

Riverfront. . . . . . . . . . . ............ 3 City Calendar . . . . . . . . . .......... 4 In Lehman’s Terms . . . . . . . ....... 4 Pearson named Police Chief. . ... 5 News & Notes . . . . . . . . . .......... 5 Ask the City. . . . . . . . . . ........... 6 Shakopee Social District. . . . ..... 7 Voting in 2026. . . . . . . . . .......... 8 Parks & Recreation. . . . . ..... 9–11 Development News. . . . . . ...... 12 Engineering . . . . . . . ........ 13–14 Public Works. . . . . . . ........ 15–16 Public Safety. . . . . . . ........ 17–18 Chief's Notes. . . . . . . . . .......... 17 Cover Photo: Guests at SandVenture Aquatic Park stay cool while shooting hoops in the water, one of many new features at the sandbottom pool. The Shakopee Snapshot is produced four times a year by the City of Shakopee. Editor: Amanda Lillie Design/Layout: Deb Noble Contributing Writers: Amanda Lillie, Alex Jordan, Barb Kraemer, Tom Pitschneider, Joe Simon, Stephanie Janke, Kelsi McNutt, Ryan Piotraschke, Mark Noble © Copyright 2026. City of Shakopee. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. Printed in the USA.

This concept drawing gives a general idea of what the riverfront along Huber Park might look like when the project is complete. Transforming Shakopee’s riverfront What to expect from the riverbank stabilization project starting this fall The City of Shakopee is moving forward with a major riverbank stabilization project designed to pro tect critical infrastructure, preserve local history, and enhance public access along the Minnesota River. Stretching from the Holmes Street bridge to the historic Sweeney’s Marina, the project will reinforce and stabilize the southern riverbank adjacent to Huber Park. This area has experienced significant erosion over the past several decades. Since 1970, more than 100 feet of riverbank has been lost near the Holmes Street crossing, largely due to the region’s highly erodible silt and clay soils combined with river currents and flooding. That erosion poses more than just an environmental concern. Underground sanitary sewer infra structure, essential to the City’s operations, is increasingly at risk of being exposed to river currents as the bank continues to recede.

FIND US ONLINE AT: ShakopeeMN.gov

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Continued on page 6

Summer 2026 3

IN LEHMAN’S TERMS A message from the Mayor of Shakopee Hello, Shakopee! The summer season is my favorite. I couldn’t help but listen to Seals & Crofts’“Summer Breeze” as I was drafting this message. It’s an oldie from 1972, and worth a listen. Summer brings people outdoors for fun, and there certainly are many options from Rhythm on the Rails to the newly released

CITY CALENDAR

JUNE 5 SandVenture Grand

Opening: 11 a.m., see city website for admissions information 7 Night to Unite registration opens: See city website 8 Picnic with Police: 5–8 p.m., Lions Park, free 26 Beach Bash: 11 a.m.–2 p.m., SandVenture 26 21+ Night at SandVenture: 6:30–8:30 p.m., pre-registration encouraged JULY 2 Happy Birthday America Center, city offices closed; SandVenture open 11 a.m.– 4 p.m. 16 Half-Way, Half-Pay Day: Get 50% off SandVenture daily admissions all day 17 21+ Night at SandVenture: 6:30–8:30 p.m., pre registration encouraged 24 Pirate Treasure Hunt: 11 a.m.–2 p.m., SandVenture 24 Pop-Up Splash Pad: 5–7 p.m., Community Center, free AUGUST 7 Summer Carnival: 10 a.m.– Noon, Lions Park, $5/child 7 21+ Night at SandVenture: 6:30–8:30 p.m., pre registration encouraged 13 Shakopee Night to Unite: 5:30–9 p.m. 28 Pop-Up Splash Pad: 5–7 p.m., Green Meadows Park, free Parade: Staging at 10 a.m. Parade starts at 10:30 a.m., Lions Park, free 4 Fourth of July: Community

Mayor Matt Lehman

line up at the amphitheater with many different musical genres. Valleyfair sold to a new company this past year, with some major investments in the millions of dollars coming. There’s something for everybody! The river bottoms trail has always been a special natural area to walk along the Minnesota River and reflect. It will forever be different with the upcoming riverfront changes. Read more about those in this issue’s cover story. Community safety is all-encompassing and always one of my priorities. Please be attentive whether you’re on bike, foot, or wheels. Follow traffic controls and try to be patient and courteous. City Council recently adopted its very first safety action plan called SS4A, Safe Streets for All. This is federally funded and community driven with the goal of making safety improvements for everyone. Please check out the City website and participate in the survey and share your experience and knowledge towards making our community safer at ShakopeeMN.gov/ss4a . Minnesota summers bring the season of road construction and like many others, we have our share of improvements this year. These may be inconvenient, but a little preplanning does go a long way. I use the Shakopee construction maps at ShakopeeMN.gov/cityprojects to keep up with the local road projects. My oldies music certainly helps, bringing me a flood of great memories and enhancing my patience in traffic. I recommend it! In closing, Shakopee is such an awesome community in so many ways. It wouldn’t and couldn’t be so amazing without all the great people and businesses all striving and thriving together. Have a great, enjoyable summer of fun, and don’t forget to check out the Parks and Recreation program offerings at ShakopeeMN.gov/registration if you’re looking for something fun and affordable for yourself or your kiddos to do! Matt Lehman Mayor of Shakopee mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov

Find the latest city calendar at ShakopeeMN.gov/calendar .

CONTACT US MAYOR Matt Lehman . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov COUNCIL MEMBERS Angelica Contreras. . . . . . . . . ......... acontreras@ShakopeeMN.gov Jim DuLaney. . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. jdulaney@ShakopeeMN.gov Jesse Lara. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. jlara@ShakopeeMN.gov Jay Whiting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................... jaywhtng@aol.com

CITY ADMINISTRATOR William Reynolds. . . . . . . . . . . .......... breynolds@ShakopeeMN.gov CITY HALL 485 Gorman St., Shakopee, MN 55379 Phone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........................ 952-233-9300 TTY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .......................... 952-233-3837 Email. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. administration@ShakopeeMN.gov Website. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..................... ShakopeeMN.gov

4 Shakopee Snapshot

20 years serving Shakopee Jamie Pearson named Police Chief

Throughout her career, Pearson’s professional development has remained a priority. In 2024, she graduated from Northwestern Uni versity’s School of Police Staff and Command and earned her Basic Emergency Manage ment Certificate. These achievements reflect a continued focus on strengthening her lead ership skills and preparing for the complex challenges facing modern law enforcement. She has also been a longstanding advocate for treatment-based alternatives within the jus tice system. Since 2007, she has served as the law enforcement liaison for the Scott County Treatment Court, helping connect individuals with resources and support as they navigate the court process. Pearson’s involvement has expanded at the state level, where she was appointed in 2024 to the Statewide Treatment Court Committee and served as a subcommittee lead. She has also contributed as a Community Corrections Advisory Board member and, in 2025, became a Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Ini tiative (PAARI) Pro, further supporting addic tion recovery initiatives. At the heart of her work is a commitment to building strong relationships within the com munity and fostering partnerships that sup port long-term safety and well-being. “I look forward to leading this exceptional team while thoughtfully navigating the con tinued growth of our community,” Pearson said.

Shakopee’s new police chief brings nearly two decades of experience with the Shako pee Police Department, along with a steady, community-centered approach to leadership. Chief Jamie Pearson joined the department in 2006 after earning a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from St. Cloud State Univer sity and completing the Law Enforcement Skills Program at Alexandria Technical College. Over the years, she has taken on a wide range of roles, including patrol officer, D.A.R.E. officer, field training officer, explorer advisor, investigator, patrol sergeant, inves tigations sergeant, captain, and now as Sha kopee’s first female police chief. Each step in Pearson’s career has contributed to a leader ship style grounded in accountability, col laboration, and public service. “After serving the Shakopee community for the past 20 years, it is a tremendous honor to step into the role of Chief,” Pearson said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue working alongside this community, building on the extraordinary efforts to keep Shakopee a safe, welcoming, and exceptional place to live and visit.” Pearson is known for her ability to lead com plex investigations, guide multidisciplinary teams, and implement policing strategies that emphasize trust and transparency. Her expe rience includes crisis management, policy development, and budget oversight, as well as building strong partnerships with other agen cies to enhance community safety.

How Can I Help You? Meet Amanda Schwabe, who works as a Planner in the Planning and Development Department. Q: What do you do for the City? A: Think of me as a translator between your ideas and the rules that keep our city running smoothly. Whether someone wants to create a new subdivision, open a commercial space, or put up a fence, I review those plans to make sure they align with the City Code. I also draft ordinances that propose new or updated regulations, which then go before bodies like the Planning Commission and City Council. Q: What do you enjoy about working for the City? A: This community has so much going on! We have exciting development, great outdoor spaces, a diverse housing landscape, and I get a front-row seat to all of it. I love that I can be working with a large scale development one day and helping a family think through a home addition the next. Watching a project go from a concept on paper to something you can actually walk through or drive past never gets old for me. Q: What’s the best part of your job? A: The people, without a doubt. I enjoy the team I work with and the community members I get to serve. There’s something really satisfying about sitting across from someone who feels overwhelmed by the process and helping them find a path forward. When we can get a project completed in a way that works for the applicant and benefits the broader neighborhood, that’s the sweet spot. That’s why I do this work.

NEWS & NOTES NEW EMPLOYEES JOIN CITY STAFF Join us in welcoming these new employees to the City of Shakopee:

■ Ryan Fitzgerald , Fire Battalion Chief ■ Tyler Moyna , Fire Battalion Chief ■ Ryan Seykora , Fire Captain ■ Macauley Bartells , Fire Fighter ■ Kylee Breeggemann , Fire Fighter ■ Dalton Burns , Fire Fighter ■ Brandon Busch , Fire Fighter ■ Joshua DeWall , Fire Fighter ■ Andrew Duitsman , Fire Fighter

■ Liam Dutton , Fire Fighter ■ Shawn Lovejoy , Fire Fighter ■ Mark Olson , Fire Fighter ■ Samuel Peterson , Fire Fighter ■ Zachary Schwaesdal , Fire Fighter ■ Tony Truony , Fire Fighter ■ Isaiah Brambilla , Police Officer ■ Mitchell Cunningham , Police Officer ■ CJ Harrison , Communications Specialist

Summer 2026 5

Continued from page 3 Increased flooding frequency has accelerated erosion rates, with pro jections estimating that another 50 feet of riverbank could be lost on each side of the river by 2060. That’s the equivalent of more than 6,000 truckloads of earth. To address these challenges, the City has secured nearly $14 million in state and federal funding as part of an $18.6 million total project cost. The improvements will stabilize the riverbank, restore wildlife habitat, and create safer, more accessible connections to the river for residents and visitors. The City’s share, approximately $4.9 million, will be funded through dedicated sources such as stormwater, sanitary sewer, and park development fees, rather than property taxes. Though site grading and other construction won’t begin until this fall, likely in October, the City removed trees along the southern banks of the river in Huber Park in March to prepare for the project. The trees will eventually be replaced with native plants and trees that will pro vide more natural and comprehensive protection for erosion and wildlife. The planned improvements include reshaping and stabilizing the riv erbanks, installing protective riprap, and establishing native plant ings to slow erosion and support long-term ecological and wildlife health. The project will also protect cultural and historical resources that reflect the community’s past. Public amenities are a key component of the improvements. The existing Levee Drive parking lot to the west of the Holmes Street bridge will be transformed into an art plaza featuring a river overlook, while Sweeney’s Marina will be restored to support non-motorized recreation, including the addition of an ADA-accessible kayak launch. This project is the result of years of planning and coordination, par ticularly in securing outside funding to reduce the burden on local taxpayers. Once complete, the improvements are expected to pro tect vital infrastructure, preserve the river corridor, and create new opportunities for residents to connect with one of Shakopee’s most defining natural features. To view the full project design gallery and compare the current land scape to future plans, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/riverbank .

A manhole cover can be seen exposed by riverbank erosion around it.

Steep drop-offs along the river’s edge illustrate the severity of soil erosion.

#AsktheCity

HOW WILL MYSTIC LAKE AMPHITHEATER AFFECT SHAKOPEE?

The new 19,000-seat Mystic Lake Amphitheater is opening in June for its inaugural concert season, and with 37 shows on the line-up, it’s going to be a busy summer. Here’s a look at some of the considerations being made by Shakopee Police: Q: WHAT OTHER MEASURES ARE BEING TAKEN TO ENSURE PUBLIC SAFETY AT THE AMPHITHEATER? Q: WHAT IS THE PLAN FOR CONCERT-RELATED TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT THE CANTERBURY ROAD EXIT ON SOUTHBOUND HIGHWAY 169?

A: The Shakopee Police have been working with the amphitheater to outline possible response scenarios and participate in walk-throughs of the amphitheater building for emergency planning purposes. These law enforcement agencies have participated in tabletop exer cises regarding a variety of scenarios, from the possibility of severe weather to what would happen if a concert goer is injured in a mosh pit. The amphitheater also has its own in-house medical services for supporting emergency medical needs in the event of such an injury.

A: The Shakopee Police Department is partnering with Scott County and the Minnesota Department of Transportation on recommended detours during anticipated high-traffic windows. Drivers can expect to see signage encouraging use of alternate routes like Highway 101 or other exits to reduce congestion at Canterbury Road. Law enforce ment officers will also be posted at every major intersection before and after concerts to assist with traffic flow. Shakopee Police are encourag ing drivers and community members to anticipate traffic back-ups and delays as the optimal flow is worked out once the amphitheater opens in June.

6 Shakopee Snapshot

Download the DSI garbage and recycling app Want to stay updated about changes to your garbage and recycling ser vices? Download the Dick’s Sanita tion mobile app! With the DSI app, residents can access their garbage service calendar, dou ble check whether certain materials are recyclable, sign up for waste col lection reminders, and receive service alerts for collection delays or holidays. To download the app, search “Dick’s Sanitation” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once downloaded, residents can enter their address in the app to locate their collection schedule. For questions or technical issues, con tact DSI at shakopee@dickssanita tion.com .

A conceptual design shows the tiered open space area that will be constructed.

The project will create river overlook areas for community members to enjoy the natural landscape.

Sip and stroll in Shakopee’s social district

Shakopee’s Social District is open for sipping alcoholic beverages while you shop and stroll through Oct. 31. The Social District allows adults 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from licensed businesses and enjoy them outdoors within designated public areas. The district includes two sections, one in downtown Shakopee and one in Canterbury Commons. The Downtown Section of the Social Dis trict includes the area bordered by First Ave nue, Spencer Street, Atwood Street, and the Second Street railroad tracks, including the Lewis Street parking lot.

The Canterbury Commons Section includes the area bordered by Unbridled Avenue, Shenandoah Drive, Winner’s Circle Drive, and Canterbury Road. Both areas are clearly marked with signage to direct community members on where they can and cannot have beverages. The Social District is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. between May 1 and October 31, and during the first full weekend of Decem ber. Beverages must be served by licensed businesses in City-approved containers fea turing the business name and the official Social District logo and must stay within the designated boundaries.

For more information about the Social District, including maps showing the district boundar ies, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/socialdistrict .

Summer 2026 7

What you need to know about voting in 2026 The year 2026 is an election year, with the Primary Election scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 11, and the General Election sched uled for Tuesday, Nov. 3. Here’s what Shakopee voters should Government Center by the day before the election and can be mailed to: Scott County, MN Help make election day happen by becoming an election judge! This is a paid position. Election judges help the voting process run smoothly on Election Day by greeting Government Center 200 Fourth Ave. W. Shakopee, MN 55379

know about where and how to vote: ELECTION DAY VOTING To cast a ballot on an Election Day, eligible voters need to vote at their local Shako pee polling location, also known as a pre cinct. Voters can determine their polling location by visiting pollfinder.sos.mn.gov and entering their address. EARLY VOTING Eligible voters can submit their ballot at Shakopee City Hall (485 Gorman St.) well ahead of Election Day. The City will have trained election judges available to assist voters. Visit ShakopeeMN.gov/elections for up to-date information about when early voting will begin for both the primary

HOW EARLY VOTING WORKS Visit ShakopeeMN.gov/elections to view early voting hours. Typically, early voting is avail able at City Hall from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays leading up to election days, with additional hours the weekend prior to the election.

and registering voters, providing ballots, demonstrating how to use the tabulator, and setting up and closing the polling location. Visit ShakopeeMN.gov/electionjudges for more information and to apply.

and general elections. MAIL-IN VOTING

Mail-in voting is also available. Voters can request an absentee ballot for mail-in vot ing by contacting the Secretary of State at mnvotes.sos.mn.gov . Mail-in ballots must be received by the Scott County

Voting booths will be available at City Hall for those needing to vote early in the primary and general elections.

SHOW OFF SHAKOPEE PHOTO CONTEST

2026

Submit your photos to the City of Shakopee’s 2026 Show O Shakopee Photo Contest! This year’s categories are:

Uniquely Shakopee | Innovating | Entertaining | Thriving | Budding Photographer Submit your photos at ShakopeeMN.gov/showo shakopee from September 1–30, 2026

See the full contest rules and info on the city website: ShakopeeMN.gov/showo shakopee GRAND PRIZE: $100 | CATEGORY WINNERS 5 : $50

8 Shakopee Snapshot

PARKS & RECREATION

Rent a kayak for a paddle on Quarry Lake

We get it, lugging a kayak around on top of a vehicle for a relaxing paddle is sometimes the opposite of relaxing. Take the unwanted manual labor out of it by renting a kayak at Quarry Lake and only lugging it as far as the shore and back! The rental stations are self-service. All you need to do is download the Rent.Fun app, use it to scan the QR code at the rental station to access the kayak and paddles, and be on your way! The app is used for payment, as well. Kayak rental is $25 for a two hour rental, and an additional $15 per hour thereafter. When you’re done using the kayak, return your equipment to the self service station. Select “unlock” in the app and return your items. Visit ShakopeeMN.gov/quarrylake for information.

Splash Pad open daily all summer

Want to cool down but don’t feel like committing to an afternoon at the pool? Check out the Lions Park Splash Pad! Located between the Lions Park playground and SandVenture Aquatic Park, the splash pad is the perfect happy medium for those long summer days when the kids are itching to be outdoors. The splash pad is free to use and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visitors can push the button in the center of the splash pad to activate the water features. Guests can bring water toys like buckets and spray wands as long as they are used respectfully. Lions Park has indoor restrooms and a water fountain, too, if the kids want to change into dry clothes to play at the inclusive playground just a few feet away. Please use caution when driving through the parking lot area, as the Lions Park lot will be undergoing improvements this summer.

Summer 2026 9

PARKS & RECREATION

Building Maintenance Manager Jeremy Benz recognized as 2025 Manager of the Year

Building Maintenance Manager Jeremy Benz received the 2025 Manager of the Year Award from City Administrator Bill Reynolds after being nominated by Parks and Recreation Director Kelsi McNutt. Benz was nominated for his servant leader ship, dedication, and strong commitment to serving the community. Benz, who manages the maintenance oper ations for the Parks and Recreation Depart ment, played a key role in several major initia tives in 2025. Most notably, he helped ensure SandVenture Aquatic Park opened on sched ule despite a series of unforeseen challenges. Through careful coordination, organization, and a steady approach to problem solving,

Benz guided his team through obstacles while maintaining a positive and focused work environment. Colleagues describe Benz as dependable and solutions oriented. “His work reflects a strong awareness of the importance of responsible resource manage ment, particularly in maintenance operations where costs often exceed revenue” McNutt said. “He consistently prioritizes decisions that deliver value to residents and align with the City’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.” Through his leadership and dedication, Benz has made significant contributions to the department and the broader Shakopee community. Congratulations, Jeremy, on the 2025 Manager of the Year Award!

Celebrate Parks and Rec Month by exploring a park you’ve never visited

opportunities for all ages to learn new skills, build relationships, and experience something new. As we celebrate Parks and Recreation Month, we invite you to take part in all that Shakopee has to offer. Visit a park you have not explored before with our summer passport program or simply spend time outdoors enjoying the spaces that make our community unique. In Shakopee, the power of parks and recreation can be seen in every day moments, bringing people together, and creating a place where people truly want to be.

Each July, communities across the country celebrate Parks and Rec reation Month, a nationwide initiative led by the National Recreation and Park Association. Since 1985, this annual celebration has recognized the essential role parks, trails, and recreation programs play in building healthy and vibrant communities. In Shakopee, this month is more than a national observance, it reflects the experiences and spaces that shape daily life in our community. This year’s theme, “The Power Of Play and Connection,” highlights the many ways parks and recreation services make a meaningful impact on the communities they serve. From supporting physical and men tal well-being to creating opportunities for connection and belong ing, these spaces and programs are woven into the fabric of our city. Whether it is walking along one of our many trails, a morning work out at Scenic Heights Park Fitness Court, or an evening spent at a local park like Killarney Hills with family and friends, these moments con tribute to a stronger, more connected Shakopee. Throughout the summer, the City offers a wide range of opportu nities for residents and visitors to get involved and stay active. The Shakopee Community Center serves as a hub for fitness, recreation, and community gathering all year-round, while SandVenture Aquatic Park continues to be a destination for families looking to cool off on a hot summer day. Seasonal programs and special events create

Staff from the Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department pose for a celebratory photo at the 2025 SandVenture Grand Opening.

10 Shakopee Snapshot

PARKS & RECREATION

Explore more this summer with the Shakopee Park Passport Program

Whether you’re exploring a new park for the first time or revisit ing a family favorite, the Shako pee Park Passport Program is a great way to stay active, discover hidden gems, and create lasting summer memories. P A R K P A S S P O R T S H A K O P E E P A R K S & R E C

Looking for a fun, free way to get outside and explore Shakopee this summer? The Shakopee Park Passport Program is back, offering fami lies a simple and exciting adventure from June through August. Designed to encourage outdoor exploration and connection with local parks, the program invites participants to visit designated loca tions throughout the city, search for a hidden word at each location or listed park, and complete their passport along the way. It’s part scavenger hunt, part park tour, and all about making the most of summer. Each week, a new letter will be introduced at a new location, but the previous words will remain posted until the program ends. Getting started is easy. Pick up a passport at the Shakopee Commu nity Center located at 1255 Fuller Street, or sign up for weekly emails and receive a printable copy. To sign up for emails, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/registration and select the “Special Events” tab. Registering for the “2026 Park Passport” pro gram for free will sign you up for the emails. From there, your mission is to visit all nine participating parks and find the hidden words at each location. Some of the parks featured in the 2026 program include Jackson Commons, a brand-new park with a fun farm-themed playground, Killarney Hills, another new spot with plenty of open space to run around and play, and the Shakopee Skate Park, so don’t forget to bring your skateboards and scooters! Once your passport is complete, bring it back to the Community Center front desk to claim a prize. Completed passports will also be entered into a drawing for gift cards to nearby businesses, adding some additional motivation to visit each location. Completed passports should be returned to the Shakopee Community Center by Sunday, August 16, so be sure to plan your visits and turn yours in on time.

This lucky guy found the letter “D” at the Windermere Park Observation Tower last summer.

Amateur Baseball Tournament returns to Shakopee If you love town ball, you’re going to love this: Shakopee is hosting the State Amateur Baseball Tournament this August alongside neigh boring cities like New Prague, Jordan, and Chaska. free meal. If you’re interested, reach out to Becka Hoffman at hoffman becka@gmail.com .

All proceeds from the tournament go back into maintenance and improvements at Joe Schleper Stadium through the Joe Schleper Sta dium Fund Board and the City of Shakopee. Shakopee has hosted the tournament in 1948, 2008, 2018, 2020, 2024 opening weekend, and now again in 2026 as a main host site. Atten dance in 2018 hit a 30-year high, and interest continues to grow, helped by events like the FOX 9 Town Team Tour, which brought nearly 1,500 fans to the stadium last season. More details will be shared as the tournament gets closer, but for now, mark your calendars. It’s shaping up to be a few great weekends of baseball.

Minnesota Amateur Baseball is among the top amateur leagues in the country, featuring Class A, B, and C teams. The tournament runs over three weekends, Aug. 21–23 and 28–30, and Sept. 4–7. Both Shakopee and New Prague will host games all three weekends, including the Class A, B, and C championship games over Labor Day weekend. This year’s Tri-Chairs are Bill Schleper, Chet Meyer, and Becka Hoff man. The host committee is currently looking for volunteers to help with concessions and burger stands, apparel, admissions, beer sales, and ball shagging. Volunteers receive free admission for the day and a

Summer 2026 11

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

‘What’s going there?’ An overview of new housing developments It’s clear just by driving through town that Shakopee continues to grow, with new homes and parks popping up seemingly every month. Often, residential areas take time to fully construct, with developers building homes in phases over the course of years in some cases. Here’s an update on four new residential subdivisions in Shakopee: GREENVIEW ESTATES

The City of Shakopee continues to see steady residential growth, and one of the newest addi tions is Greenview Estates, a neighborhood being developed by Lennar Corporation. The devel opment is located south of County Road 78 between Marystown Road and Zumbro Avenue. Formerly in Jackson Township, Greenview Estates will include 193 single-family residen tial lots, helping meet the City’s ongoing demand for quality housing options. The development is designed with a mix of lot sizes to provide variety and flexibility for future homeowners, with lot widths of approximately 50, 55, and 65 feet. This range supports a diverse housing product while maintaining an efficient and cohesive neighborhood layout. The development also provides connections to the existing trail system in the adjacent Highview development. It also features a small city park that complements the much larger Jackson Commons, created in cooperation with Jackson Township. PALOMINO TRAILS Developed by PulteGroup, the 30-acre neighborhood is located off the newly extended 17th Avenue on the west side of town. The development includes approximately 83 single family residential lots, with a range of lot widths generally spanning 50 to 70 feet. This mix allows for a variety of home styles and price points, supporting broader housing accessibility while maintaining cohesive neighborhood design standards. Palomino Trails incorporates preserved open spaces and trail connections, providing resi dents with access to outdoor amenities and reinforcing the City’s commitment to environ mental stewardship. It is adjacent to the City’s recently acquired Windermere Bluff open space that includes more than 63 acres from Marystown Road to Old Brick Yard Road. BLUFF VIEW Bluff View is a master-planned residential subdivision located in western Shakopee, gen erally situated west of Zumbro Avenue and north of LaTour Avenue. The development is being led by Summergate Development, with home construction primarily by D.R. Horton. The approved plan for Bluff View includes approximately 247 single-family residential lots on roughly 85 gross acres, with an estimated 60 net develop able acres. The subdivision incorporates a mix of lot widths and housing types to accommodate a range of buyers: Approximately 127 lots with 50-foot widths and approximately 95 lots with 60-foot widths. Bluff View incorporates significant open space, with these areas primarily located along the city’s bluff corridor and include stormwater features, preserved natural areas, and pedestrian trail connections. ELLIANA ESTATES Elli, LLC is developing a residential subdivision just west of Mystic Lake Drive S. (County Road 83) and south of the Valley Crest development. This new subdivision is known as Elliana Estates. This newly developed residential area in Shakopee offers a thoughtfully planned neigh borhood setting integrated with natural features such as wetlands, open space, and pedestrian connections in every direction. Model homes have already been constructed by OneTenTen Homes in this 14-acre subdi vision that consists of 31 home sites.

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ENGINEERING

Marystown Road closed through August Two more roundabouts, trails being constructed

The second phase of construction on Marystown Road/Adams Street from 17th Avenue to Vierling Drive is in progress, with the area expected to reopen to traffic by the end of August. Phase One of the project was completed in 2025 and included con struction of a roundabout at the intersection of Marystown Road and the southbound ramp for Highway 169, which also serves as the access to Tahpah Park. Phase Two includes the construction of a roundabout at the intersec tion of Vierling Drive and Adams Street, which was previously con trolled by a four-way stop, and a roundabout on Marystown Road at the northbound entrance to Highway 169. In addition to roadway and intersection improvements along Marys town Road, lighting, and trees will be installed along both sides of the road. The existing bridge will be retrofitted with trails that are sepa rated from vehicle traffic by raised barriers. During construction, traffic is detoured along 10th Avenue, 17th Ave nue, and Fuller Street. Access to Tahpah Park will be available from both entrances on Vierling Drive and Marystown Road. Detour maps and other project updates are available at www.marys townroad.com . Major construction and traffic impacts are scheduled to begin July 6 at the intersection of Old Carriage Road and Old Carriage Court in the Southbridge area. In recent years, increased vehicle traffic in this bustling development has caused safety and traffic flow issues. The City of Shakopee con ducted a study in 2024 to evaluate options for possible road improve ments and has developed a construction plan based on the study results. The improvements include: ■ Constructing a hybrid roundabout at the intersection of Old Carriage Road and Old Carriage Court (combination of single and multi-lane based on traffic need) ■ Adding a traffic signal at the intersection of Old Carriage Court and the Walmart entrance, providing improved access for the redevelopment area ■ Modifying access points along Old Carriage Court and Old Carriage Road to reduce vehicle conflicts The project will be constructed in multiple phases to maintain access to area businesses. Phase One: July 6–Sept. 25 The first phase will include construction of the roundabout at the Old Carriage Court and Old Carriage Road intersection. This work will begin on July 6 and will be re-opened to traffic no later than Sept. 25. During construction, the intersection will be closed and local traffic will detoured along a temporary road through the Walmart parking

An aerial view of the roundabout constructed during the first phase of the Marystown Road project in 2025 Old Carriage Court improvements scheduled for early July start

This work will begin after phase one is done, with phase two com plete no later than Oct. 31. During phase two, the new roundabout will be open to traffic, but Old Carriage Court between Southbridge Parkway and the new roundabout will be closed to traffic. Detour signage will be in place for drivers to navigate the closure area. In advance of the July 6 closure date, there will be construction work in the area such as private utility relocation, development construc tion, and staging to prepare the area for construction. To further minimize area impacts, the City included provisions in the project contract to incentivize the contractor to complete construc tion in advance of the required completion dates. To stay up to date on the latest news and information on this project, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/oldcarriage.

A roundabout will be constructed at the intersection, pictured, of Old Carriage Court and Old Carriage Road.

lot in a designated bypass location. Phase Two: Late September–Oct. 31

The second phase of the project will include installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Old Carriage Court and Walmart Drive, as well as construction of medians south of the new roundabout.

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ENGINEERING

Lighting and ADA improvement project continues downtown The project is in its third of four phases

The Downtown Lighting and ADA Improvements are part of a multi year project that began in 2024 and is expected to be complete in 2027. The project has consisted of replacing the street lighting system (including light poles and bases, wiring, electrical cabinet, and con duit), removing worn and uneven brick pavers, and replacing ADA deficient pedestrian ramps. In 2024 and 2025, the following portions of downtown were completed: ■ Fuller Street between First and Third Avenues ■ Second Avenue between Atwood and Fuller Streets ■ Holmes Street between First and Third Avenues ■ Second Avenue between Fuller and Holmes Streets In 2026 and 2027, the following portions of downtown will undergo improvements: 2026 ■ Sommerville Street between First and Third Avenues ■ The south sides of First and Second Avenues between Lewis and Sommerville Streets

The attached map highlights the areas and years of construction for the four phases of the Downtown Lighting and ADA Improvements. 2027 ■ Lewis Street between First and Third Avenues ■ The south side of First Avenue between Holmes and Lewis Streets For project updates, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/downtownada .

Help shape the future of safer streets in Shakopee Take our survey at ShakopeeMN.gov/ss4a Whether it’s a quick trip to the store, a walk or ride around the neighborhood, or a daily com mute, everyone relies on Shakopee’s streets in different ways. The City is taking an important step to make those everyday trips safer by developing a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan. This first-ever citywide transportation safety plan will focus on reducing and eliminating fatal and serious injury crashes. By studying speed and crash data and listening closely to commu nity experiences, Shakopee aims to better understand where safety improvements are needed and how to make streets work better for everyone—including people walking, biking, driving, and rolling—both now and into the future. But data only tells part of the story. The City is looking to residents, workers, and visitors to help

Keep Shakopee clean and safe by cleaning up after pets Pet waste isn’t just unsanitary, it’s also a harmful pollutant that can threaten human and envi ronmental health. When pet waste is left on side walks, in parks, or even in your own yard, the pollutants in it are eventually carried through the storm sewer directly into local water bodies. Because pet waste contains harmful bacteria and pathogens, it can contribute to excessive algae growth in our water bodies, which upsets the delicate ecolog ical balance of the natural habitat. You can help by picking up after your pet, including in your own yard. This includes bagging it and putting it in the trash, as land fills are designed to handle sub stances such as dog waste and cat litter. City Code 130.03 (I)(2)(f)&(g) requires pet owners to cleanup and dispose of pet waste imme diately and in a sanitary manner.

fill in the gaps. Where do you feel safe? Where are there challenges or close calls? Your perspective is essential in shaping a plan that reflects real expe riences in the community. Community members are encouraged to share their thoughts through a brief online survey and comment map at ShakopeeMN.gov/ss4a . Our project team will be out in the community this year to discuss these important safety issues, so be on the look-out for us at community events. By sharing your input, you can help guide future improvements and play a role in creating a safer, more connected Shakopee for everyone.

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PUBLIC WORKS Understanding potholes and how we fix them

We all know the frustration of hitting a pothole and sometimes even swerving to avoid the biggest ones. Here in Shakopee, like much of Minnesota, potholes are an almost unavoidable part of our roads. A pothole forms when water seeps into the soil beneath the pavement and weakens it. As cars and trucks drive over these areas, the unsup ported asphalt begins to break apart. Over time, pieces of asphalt and soil are displaced, leaving a hole in the road. Winter can make potholes worse. When daytime temperatures melt snow and ice, water infiltrates the pavement. At night, when temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, pushing up the asphalt. Repeated freezing and thawing eventually causes cracks and creates potholes. To keep our roads safe and smooth, the City of Shakopee uses two main types of pothole repairs: temporary and semi-permanent. Temporary repairs, often done in winter when conditions aren’t ideal for permanent fixes, use cold mix asphalt to quickly restore a drivable surface. Semi-permanent repairs are performed when weather and conditions allow for a longer-lasting solution. Residents can help keep our streets in great condition by reporting potholes and other road issues directly on the in the City’s Service Request Portal at ShakopeeMN.gov/servicerequest .

See a pothole? Tell us! Visit ShakopeeMN.gov/servicerequest to report potholes or other local road issues.

Your reports help our crews prioritize repairs and make Shakopee’s streets safer for everyone.

Register your preschooler for ‘Big Rigs’ See Public Works machinery up close July 24, Aug. 14

If you’re looking to gain some summer brownie points with the pre schooler in your life, our Big Rigs events on July 24 and Aug. 14 are a great place to start. This event gives kids the chance to get up close and personal and explore a variety of special heavy-duty equipment used by the Public Works Department. Register in advance at ShakopeeMN.gov/registration . Cost for residents is $7.

Kids ages 3–5 will have an hour to explore some of the big machines used by the City.

Keeping Shakopee’s sanitary sewer system flowing Keeping the City of Shakopee’s sanitary sewer system running smoothly takes planning, preventative maintenance, and teamwork between the City and residents. The Public Works Department follows a regular pro gram of cleaning and inspecting sewer lines to prevent small issues from becoming messy problems. Recently, crews identified and sealed inflow and infiltration issues in manholes near the Minnesota River, saving money for the City by pre venting unnecessary strain on the system. Another sanitary sewer concern is hydrogen sulfide gas, known for its “rotten egg” smell, which can cause scaling and damage to pipes. The City has successfully used methods such as epoxy coatings to slow this deterioration.

Every three years, City crews clean (or“jet”) all main sewer lines. In 2026, more than 275,000 feet of sewer lines will be jet-cleaned to remove debris and keep water flowing freely. The City also inspects its pipes with a camera televising system every 10 years. This process identifies grease buildup, cracked or sagging pipes, and offset joints. It also helps detect inflow (when clean water from sump pumps or downspouts enters the sewer system) and infil tration (when groundwater leaks into sewer pipes). Excess clear water reduces capacity for wastewater, which can lead to backups and increased treatment costs.

Residents also play an important role in keeping the system flowing. Only flush body waste, pet waste, and toilet paper. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, and never flush wipes, diapers, or other items. The packaging may claim it’s a “flushable” product, but in real ity those items do not break down as easily as toilet paper and can snag on the pipes, causing clogs and backups. For more information on Shakopee’s sanitary sewer system and tips to prevent backups, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/publicworks .

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PUBLIC WORKS Public Works rolls out improved irrigation controller system

To support this, all systems were upgraded with new water sensors designed to reduce watering when rain has already occurred. These sensors ensure that irrigation only happens when it’s truly needed, preventing waste and promoting healthier landscapes throughout our community. The City of Shakopee recently transitioned 22 irrigation systems to the Hunter Centralus platform, demonstrating a strong commit ment to modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible water management. New technologies allow the City to modernize the way we care for public property. It enhances reliability, improves efficiency, and allows staff to deliver a higher level of service, all while keeping Sha kopee looking its best.

As part of the Public Works Department’s commitment to delivering smarter, more efficient irrigation solutions, we’ve upgraded our opera tions to the Hunter Centralus cloud‑based management platform. This change will make a positive impact in the City’s ongoing effort to pro vide faster service, reduce water waste, and stay ahead of the curve. Centralus gives Public Works staff the ability to monitor and manage irrigation systems remotely, which means they can adjust schedules, check system status, and respond to issues without needing to be on‑site. This dramatically reduces downtime and eliminates many unnecessary service visits, allowing staff to resolve problems quickly and keep landscapes performing at their best. The platform also helps the City use water more responsibly. With real‑time data, weather‑based adjustments, and smarter scheduling tools, staff can fine‑tune irrigation to match actual landscape needs.

Public Works’ column lifts make maintenance quicker, more efficient

Did you know the City’s Public Works Department has the capability to lift up an entire fire engine for maintenance? The department has six mobile column lifts in the mechanic shop, and each one is rated to lift 18,500 pounds on its own. Collectively, the six lifts can hoist up to 111,000 pounds. That’s like lifting 10 elephants! Each column is on wheels, allowing crews to move them anywhere in the workshop depending on the need and vehicle involved. With such versatility and strength, these column lifts save the City time and cost by reducing vehicle downtime and increasing the maintenance capabilities of the City’s own team.

The department's column lifts are able to collectively lift up an entire fire engine.

Free wood chips available for Shakopee residents The City has extra wood chips available to Shakopee residents. A self serve bin is located in front of the 500 Gorman St. building near the south gate. There is no charge for the wood chips, but residents are responsible for hand loading, so bring your own shovel. Please follow all posted directions.

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PUBLIC SAFETY

CHIEF’S NOTES

As Shakopee grows, keeping you safe remains at the heart of everything we do. I’m proud to share a major

Shakopee Fire Chief Joe Simon

milestone: for the first time in our City’s history, Fire Station 2 is now staffed 24/7 with full-time firefighters. This became possible thanks to a $2.6 million SAFER grant from FEMA, which funded 12 new full-time positions. With continued support from our City Administration and City Council, who approved three additional roles, we’ve added a total of 15 firefighters, captains, and battalion chiefs. This is the largest single staffing increase our department has ever seen. You might be wondering what this does for Shakopee, or for you as a resident. In an emergency, seconds count. Truly, seconds can save lives. Full-time staffing at Station 2 dramatically improves our response times, especially for residents in West Shakopee, making everyone in our city safer. And importantly, every one of our team members is also an EMT, ensuring that high-level lifesaving care reaches your door even faster. Our growth is a direct response to a growing community; our call volume has more than doubled since 2018. The SAFER grant allows us to meet today’s needs while planning responsibly for tomorrow, ensuring this growth doesn’t place an immediate burden on local taxpayers. Since 1883, the Shakopee Fire Department has remained committed to Pride, Honor, Integrity, and Service. With two staffed fire stations, we are better prepared than ever to protect our community. As we move into this new chapter, we are faster, stronger, and safer every day.

Officers Dusty Filan, left, and Alex Godfrey, right, are pictured with Chief Jamie Pearson after receiving Officer of the Year awards. Officers Filan, Godfrey named 2025 Officers of the Year Officer Dusty Filan and Officer Alex Godfrey were presented with 2025 Officer of the Year Awards in April for demonstrating their commitment to the mission and values of the police department and the City of Shakopee. Throughout 2025, Officers Filan and Godfrey demonstrated an unwavering commitment to identifying and disrupting criminal activity that posed immediate threats to public safety. Assigned to the Proactive Policing Unit (PPU), they focused on complex offenses, including violent crime, narcotics trafficking, retail theft, and burglaries. Their efforts were instrumental in locating and apprehending actively wanted individuals, identifying criminal suspects, and addressing emerging crime trends within the community. Beyond their local responsibilities, Officers Filan and Godfrey served as critical regional resources, assisting neighboring law enforcement agencies by reviewing crime alerts and providing inves tigative support when suspects could not be identified. The officers were nominated for the awards by their peers. Their exceptional dedication, pro fessionalism, and proactive approach to public safety exemplifies the highest standards of law enforcement service. Cool down in the spray of a fire truck Two pop-up splash pad events planned for summer

Who hasn’t wanted to play in the water as it rains down from a fire truck? This summer, you’ll have a chance at the City’s two pop-up splash pad events. Join Shakopee Fire and Shakopee Parks and Recreation from 5-7 p.m. July 24 in the south parking lot at the Community Center (1255 Fuller St.) or from 5-7 p.m. Aug. 28 at Green Meadows Park (3100 Thrush St.). We’ll have portable splash features con nected to the fire trucks, and kids will also have an opportunity to meet Shakopee fire fighters and check out the fire engines. Bring a towel and lawn chair, and be ready for a splashin’ good time!

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