Coon Rapids Releases Winter 2026 Newsletter Highlighting Grants, Transit Changes, and Major Citywide Decisions

As of Thursday, January 8, 2026, residents of Coon Rapids are receiving the Winter edition of the city’s official Coon Rapids Connection newsletter, outlining a wide range of initiatives already underway or approaching key decision points in the months ahead.

City officials describe the winter edition as a snapshot of active programs, confirmed policy directions, and near-term community events, with several items already impacting residents.

Front Door Grant Program Returns for 2025 Cycle

The city has confirmed the return of its Front Door Grant Program, one of Coon Rapids’ most in-demand homeowner assistance initiatives.

As of January 8:

• Grant awards range from $1,000 to $5,000
• Grants cover 15% to 25% of eligible project costs
• Homes must be owner-occupied with an estimated value under $400,000
• Due to high demand, recipients will be selected by virtual lottery
• Applications close February 26, 2025
• Lottery drawing scheduled for March 5, 2025

Eligible projects include exterior improvements such as front doors, garage doors, landscaping, roofing, and siding, depending on category.

Parks and Recreation Master Plan Work Now Underway

The city has officially begun drafting a new 10-year Parks and Recreation Master Plan, covering 2026 through 2036.

As of this week:

• Residents can provide feedback using an interactive online map
• Community members may “drop pins” and comment on specific parks or amenities
• The plan follows completion of $18 million in park improvements funded by a previous bond

City leaders say the new plan will prioritize maintenance needs, trail connectivity, and future recreational amenities.

Local Option Sales Tax Referendum Advances to State Review

The Coon Rapids City Council is currently seeking state legislative approval to allow voters to decide on a 0.5% local option sales tax in a future election, potentially November 2026.

According to the newsletter:

• Revenue would fund two projects deemed of regional significance
  • Expansion and renovation of Police Station and City Hall facilities
  • A new indoor community center and field house at the Coon Rapids Ice Center
• City estimates indicate approximately 49% of the tax burden would fall on non-residents

No referendum date has been set pending state approval.

Northstar Commuter Rail Service Ends, Bus Network Implemented

A major regional transit shift took effect January 5, 2026, with the retirement of Northstar Commuter Rail, citing high operating costs and reduced post-pandemic ridership.

In its place, Metro Transit has implemented new bus routes now operating as of January 8:

• Route 888: Ramsey, Anoka, and Coon Rapids with 30-minute peak service
• Route 827: Fridley to downtown Minneapolis
• Route 882: Pilot route serving Big Lake and Elk River

City officials encourage commuters to review updated schedules and route maps.

Snowflake Days Set to Mark 62nd Year

The 62nd annual Snowflake Days Celebration is scheduled for January 30 through February 8, 2026, continuing a tradition dating back to 1964.

Confirmed events include:

• Medallion Hunt, with daily clues beginning January 30
• Chili Challenge on February 5 at the Civic Center
• Police vs. Fire hockey game at the Coon Rapids Ice Center
• Family Fun Night and free public skating on February 8

Sustainability and Earth Month Award Nominations Open

The city’s Sustainability Commission is accepting nominations for Earth Month Sustainability Awards, recognizing environmental leadership in areas such as:

• Energy efficiency
• Waste reduction
• Pollinator protection

Past honorees have included Anoka-Hennepin School District and Anoka-Ramsey Community College for solar and conservation initiatives.

North Suburban Home Show Scheduled for March

The newsletter also confirms the 26th annual North Suburban Home Show will take place:

• Saturday, March 7, 2026
• At the Andover YMCA Community Center
• Featuring more than 100 exhibitors
• Historically drawing over 1,000 attendees

Admission is free.

Winter Safety: Avoiding the “Second Shovel”

Finally, the city offers seasonal guidance on avoiding the “second shovel”, the ridge of snow left by plows at driveway entrances. Residents are advised to clear snow to the left side of their driveway (facing the street), allowing plows to unload snow before reaching the driveway opening.

Editor’s note:
This report reflects the confirmed status of city programs and events as of the end of day, January 8, 2026, based on official City of Coon Rapids communications.

MinneapoliMedia