Anoka County Accepts Testamentary Gift for Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park Improvements

Anoka County Accepts Testamentary Gift for Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park Improvements

The Anoka County Board of Commissioners has accepted a donation from the trust of the late Alan E. Grant, designated for improvements at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. The gift, drawn from the Grant Living Trust established in 2020, will provide a share of trust assets for the park once estate costs are finalized. Distributions from the trust’s Edward Jones accounts are expected to begin in late September or October 2025. The specific amount of the donation has not yet been publicly disclosed, according to county records.

Enhancing a park already under renovation

The gift comes at a time when Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is undergoing significant upgrades to preserve natural resources and enhance visitor amenities:

• Bridge and Trail Improvements: A bridge over Coon Creek at its confluence with the Mississippi River is being replaced due to erosion and slope failure. A new culvert has already been installed, and trails in the area are being reconstructed. The new bridge is expected to be fully accessible by late spring or early summer once the concrete decking is installed and cured.
• Lower Coon Creek Corridor Restoration: This project is designed to halt and prevent future shoreline erosion, ensure long-term channel stability, and improve water quality and aquatic wildlife habitat.
• Pavilion Replacement: The county is also seeking funding to replace the park’s picnic pavilion, which serves as a key gathering space for visitors.

Broader investment in Anoka County Parks

Anoka County’s park system has recently secured additional support for projects through regional and state partners. The Metropolitan Council awarded grants for redevelopment at Bunker Hills Park and for reconstruction of the lazy river bridge at Bunker Beach Water Park.

County officials say the Grant trust donation will be placed in a dedicated account and overseen jointly by Parks and Finance staff to ensure funds are invested in projects that align with the park’s long-term vision.

“Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is one of our system’s most visited destinations,” said county staff in materials prepared for the September 9 board meeting. “This gift will directly support improvements that benefit both residents and visitors while honoring the donor’s intent.”

Further details, including the total donation amount and how it will be allocated, are expected once distributions begin later this fall.

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