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Politics & Government

Theodore Wirth Park Improvement Plans in the Works

Golden Valley residents want some of those improvements to Wirth Park to include the "nude beach" on Twin Lake.

A Citizens Advisory Committee that could very well decide the fate of  Golden Valley's "nude beach" in Theodore Wirth Park gathered in front of a full house at the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Headquarters Tuesday night. 

They're tasked with discussing plans to improve Wirth Park.

"We need to un-tap the amazing resource the city has that is underutilized," Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Vice President John Irwin said.

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A large part of the evening was spent giving an overview of the extensive project plans meant to bring recreational and environmental improvements to the three slices of Wirth Park: North, Central, and South.

The board is setting a vision for the park that includes making it more diverse, inclusive and multi-age friendly. Some are also hoping to push more recreational programming within the parks to encourage youth to spend more of their time there and to enjoy nature.

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While many members of the community showed up to voice their comments and concerns, no immediate changes will be taking place anytime soon as recommendations are still being thoughtfully prepared for the Board of Commissioners.

A handful of Golden Valley residents made a point to bring up their concerns regarding the beach on Twin Lake, a small lake that lies along the border of Minneapolis and Golden Valley in Wirth Park. The beach actually sits on Minneapolis public property but neighbors the affluent Golden Valley community of Hidden Lakes. According to residents there, it has been the frequent site of underage drinking, vandalism, loud noise and nude sunbathing.

"That beach must be addressed. It's a hazardous place for the area right now. It's very important for the health and future of the park." Golden Valley resident Steve Lundeen said.

He is not alone in his cry for change. Patch.com spoke to a few residents like Lundeen who are planning to stay optimistic and dedicated that changes will be made sometime in the future.

The next Citizen Advisory Committee Meeting will be Jan. 4.

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