Electricity, water, kayak launch among this year’s additions

Photo by Robert Williams
Frazee Community Development Corporation board member Polly Andersen poses in front of Wannigan Park’s main attraction Jacob Everear, a creation of International recycling artist Thomas Dambo.

The Frazee Community Development Corporation (FCDC) announced a major milestone for Wannigan Regional Park by expanding the trail connection route in their first newsletter of the year.

The recent acquisition of this key property between the park and State Highway 87 secures a vital trail connection route from Wannigan Regional Park to the Heartland Trail. 

This strategic purchase means visitors will soon be able to safely and seamlessly travel from the Heartland Trail directly into Wannigan Regional Park and the two miles of paved trails, opening up new recreational opportunities for cyclists, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region. 

The property is located south of Wannigan Park, between State Highway 87 and the park on North River Drive. The purchase was completed on December 29, 2025. The transaction was completed by the FCDC and ownership of the land will eventually be transferred to the City of Frazee.

North River Loop Drive

The future success of Wannigan Regional Park depends on critical infrastructure improvements to North River Loop Drive. Currently unpaved and lacking essential water and sewer services, this road serves as the primary access route for park visitors and future development. 

The $2.3 million project to pave the road and install water and sewer infrastructure is essential for three key reasons: ensuring year-round sustainable access for visitors with a trail extension, reducing long-term overhead costs for development by providing necessary utilities, and supporting the park’s capacity to accommodate growing visitation. 

With over 37,000 visitors to Wannigan Regional Park in 2025—generating an estimated $2.5 million in economic impact to Becker County based on the average visitor spending of $67 per person per day—and several exciting new amenities launching in 2026, the demand on this critical roadway will only increase. 

Without proper infrastructure, the park’s ability to continue serving as an economic engine for the region will be severely compromised.

Legislative support

FCDC board members and city officials will be meeting with state legislators to advocate for the inclusion of the North River Loop Drive infrastructure project in the state bonding budget.

This project represents more than just road improvements—it’s an investment in sustainable tourism that will serve visitors and generate economic returns for decades to come. 

Community members, business owners and supporters are welcome to join FCDC in this effort by sharing stories about how Wannigan Regional Park impacts your life and livelihood. 

Phase 1 

]planning underway

Planning and design work is underway for the 2026 Phase 1 improvements, including: the installation of electricity and water, a kayak launch, a natural playground, extensive tree planting, a roundabout, and updated parking.

These exciting new amenities create meaningful opportunities for permanent recognition in 2026 through donations from families, memorials or honorariums, endowments and business sponsors.

Anyone would like to share a story on how Wannigan Regional Park has positively impacted yourself or your family, please reach out to Wannigan Regional Park volunteers so they can uplift this to our state legislators in demonstrating why this amenity is so important to invest in.  Email volunteers at Wanniganpark@gmail.com