Forgivable loans up to $5,000 are available to qualifying residents ages 60 or older, who are owner-occupants of homes in need of repairs. Funds can be used for repairs to water heaters, furnaces and central air conditioning units, or accessibility upgrades such as grab bars and handrails.
edenprairie.org/SeniorRepair
Zero-interest, deferred loans up to $15,000 are available to qualifying low and moderate-income households to maintain, repair and improve Eden Prairie homes. Funds can be used for new roofs, siding, windows, electrical, plumbing, heating and insulation.
edenprairie.org/RehabLoans
What to Do During Snow Emergencies
When the forecast indicates a snow accumulation of 2 inches or more, the City prepares for a Snow Emergency. When snow accumulation reaches 2 inches, a Snow Emergency is in effect; do not park on City streets until noon the next day. City crews work to keep roadways safe and passable throughout snow events and perform a full curb-to-curb cleanup when weather conditions allow.
edenprairie.org/Snow
id you know you can receive City news by text message?
There are two easy ways to subscribe: • Text “EP NEWS” to 468311 • Scan the QR code*
View a complete list of topics and manage your subscription settings at edenprairie.org/Subscribe
*Choose “Text” for the Subscription Type in the drop-down menu, then enter your mobile phone number.
2024
As we near the end of another year, please join us in celebrating some of the significant happenings that occurred in Eden Prairie in 2024.
The Parks and Recreation Department oversaw major court renovations at Pioneer Park, Riley Lake Park and Miller Park, resulting in the addition of 12 pickleball courts, two tennis courts and two basketball courts to the City’s park system. The department also presented Eden Prairie’s first-ever drone show during July 4 festivities.
The Fire Department responded to numerous medical, fire and special events and conducted over 5,000 fire and life-safety inspections. They also issued building permits for development projects valued at more than $150-million, and completed a staffing study to ensure the department is well positioned for the future as the fire service continues to evolve.
Several important infrastructure projects were completed by the Public Works Department, including a pavement rehabilitation project along Prairie Center Drive and the addition of a new traffic signal at Prairie Center Drive and Franlo Road. Additionally, the combination of an abnormally wet summer and ongoing conservation efforts by the department led to the lowest community water consumption levels since 1995.
The Police Department hosted several Coffee with a Cop gatherings throughout the community, which gave residents a chance to enjoy a free cup of coffee and casual conversation with officers. The department also began developing plans to remodel and expand police headquarters to accommodate the evolving needs of the department and create indoor parking space for vehicles.
The Community Development Department oversaw the approval of several noteworthy redevelopment projects, including plans that will convert vacant office properties to single-family homes and senior housing. The department also relocated its Housing and Community Services Division to City Center to enhance and streamline customer service.
Finally, the accomplishments we achieve would not be possible without the assistance of about 50 residents and more than 40 high school students who volunteer to serve on the City’s six advisory commissions. This year, commission members:
• Provided support for the annual PeopleFest! Party and Party for Pride, and collaborated with City staff to host a community Iftar
• Reviewed plans for three residential projects that will result in nearly 40 new single-family homes, and also reviewed two redevelopment projects that will convert underutilized parking lots and commercial centers to thriving business corridors
• Secured a grant to install solar arrays on the roof of Fire Station 1, and hosted workshops to help residents learn about home electrification and pollinator gardens
• Approved a proposal for new playground equipment at High Trail Estates Park, and provided input to revise athletics policies and procedures
• Began a process to document the history of the indigenous people who originally inhabited Eden Prairie and nominated the former depot site for an historic designation
• Collaborated with the Metropolitan Airports Commission and local flight schools to address noise concerns at Flying Cloud Airport
On behalf of your elected officials and everyone who works for the City of Eden Prairie, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to serve you.
Sincerely,
Rick Getschow City Manager
Community Photo Contest Winners
Winners were chosen by the City’s Facebook followers. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who participated in the contest!
FIRST PLACE
“Blue Heron Breakfast” Sheri Sanasac
SECOND PLACE
“My Sleepy Owl Friend” Aprylle Nahley
THIRD PLACE
“Boat Launch at Sunset at Riley Lake” Gopal Nemani
Energy Assistance Available
The State of Minnesota’s free Energy Assistance Program helps pay energy bills for eligible households. The program provides an average benefit of $500, plus additional support to respond to emergencies.
Both renters and homeowners can qualify. Eligibility is based on income and household size.
mn.gov/EnergyAssistance
Renewable Energy Challenge Drawing Winner
Congratulations to Eden Prairie resident John L., the winner of our Renewable Energy Challenge drawing and proud new owner of an e-Bike!
John ‘took the challenge’ by subscribing to Renewable*Connect Flex® through Xcel Energy.
Nearly 70 residents made commitments to renewable energy throughout the challenge. Thank you to everyone who participated!
edenprairie.org/RenewableEnergy
Save Money, Schedule Home Energy Audit
Eden Prairie homeowners who are Xcel Energy or CenterPoint Energy customers can learn how to save money on energy bills from a Home Energy Squad® visit. The team installs needed materials, inspects heating and cooling systems, and identifies ways to improve efficiency.
Schedule a visit now to ensure your home is ready for cold weather!
mncee.org/Home-Energy-Squad
Reduce Salt Use this Winter
Salt used on roads and walkways pollutes local lakes, streams and wetlands, which negatively affects water quality. You can help protect Eden Prairie’s water resources by decreasing your salt usage.
Start by shoveling well and if you need salt, scatter it widely. If the temperature is below 15 degrees, salt will not work so use sand instead. Finally, collect any undissolved salt and store it in an air-tight container for re-use.
