Summer 2026 Shakopee Snapshot

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