Experience Eagan cover view of Lemay Lake

Fishing Pier Coming to LeMay Lake

Last year, Experience Eagan brought you  “A Tale of Two Lakes” — a story about the restoration and removal of LeMay and Fitz lakes from the State of Minnesota’s list of impaired waters. As a result of these restoration efforts, and thanks to funding support from the Department of Natural Resources, the City of Eagan will install a new public fishing pier at Moonshine Park this fall.

Located on the southeastern bay of LeMay Lake, Moonshine Park provides access to 36 acres of water, home to largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, and bluegill sunfish — along with wildlife and native plants. Improving recreational access to Eagan’s lakes and ponds isn’t just about fishing, though. Recent studies have shown that enjoying outdoor spaces can reduce stress, improve moods, and provide a general sense of ease in an urban world.

LeMay Lake also happens to be in a part of Eagan with a gap in accessible fishing infrastructure. This pier will provide greater equity for fishing access for surrounding higher density neighborhoods, as well as highlight LeMay Lake’s recent water quality improvements. For more information about fishing in Eagan, visit cityofeagan.com/fishing.

People fishing off Eagan lakes piers'
More scenes from June’s Lakefest (clockwise left to right): First time fishing, three generations fish together, showing off a catch, and one of Blackhawk Lake’s piers.

Crane Spotting: Development Around Town

Development projects are happening all over Eagan this summer as evidenced by the number of cranes popping up. While not every project features a crane, here’s a rundown of many current projects:

  • Former Thomson Reuters buildings have been demolished in order to make site improvements for a new Amazon facility and additional development.
  • Grading and site improvements are underway at Trails End, a new 104-unit townhome development by Lennar southeast of the Yankee Doodle Road and Elrene Road intersection.
  • Construction of a new 61,554-square foot, single-story data center (3621 Argenta Trl.) is underway. Developer Oppidan expects the data center will be fully occupied and operational by December 2026.
  • Construction of 21st Century Bank (3390 Heritage Ln.) is underway; the 3,430-square-foot edifice is being built on a one-acre site.
  • A few homes on the Mount Calvary Lutheran Church campus have been demolished in order to clear space for Veterans Village. The new facility will feature 22 townhome units for veterans.
  • Omni Viking Lakes Hotel & Conference Center is constructing a new outdoor pool/spa/amenity area.
  • Demolition of the former Delta building (1500 Towerview Rd.) will occur later this summer or fall as part of the Northwest Central Commons Small Area Plan.
  • The renovation and expansion of Eagan Community Center continues.
  • Solventum, a 3M healthcare spin-off, continues to expand and remodel the former Blue Cross Blue Shield call center (1750 Yankee Doodle Rd.).
  • Hunt Electric (1000 Blue Gentian Rd.) continues to remodel its 58,000-square foot office and warehouse.

New Police Tool Aims to Curb Chases

The Eagan Police Department has become Minnesota’s first to begin using the Grappler, a tool that can prevent a car chase before it starts — or stop a pursuit before it increases risks to the public. Administrative Sgt. Rich Evans explains that the Grappler extends a net that wraps around one of the suspect’s car’s rear tires. “Being able to deploy it from the squad while behind the subject vehicle, we can limit the risks to our officers,” he says, noting that it also helps keep bystanders safe. First used in Arizona, the Grappler has since been used over 600 times to stop suspects in pursuits, according to the manufacturer. “We watched the success of the Grappler from its origins in Arizona and saw that it would give our officers a new tool in preventing and stopping pursuits. ”The Eagan Police Department is now evaluating the effectiveness of the Grappler to determine if it will expand its use across its fleet.

The Grappler tool on an Eagan Police vehicle
The Grappler on an Eagan Police vehicle.

Eagan In A Minute: All About Water

Seasonal Water Use: Summer’s arrival often means increased water usage for watering lawns, gardens, new sod, and trees. Summertime also means washing cars, filling pools, and using water-cooled air conditioning systems and pressure washers. Before doing any or all of these things, be sure to check for leaks to prevent high water bills. Follow the City of Eagan’s Odd-Even Watering Plan to conserve water and save money. If your address ends in an even number, such as 310, outdoor watering is allowed on even-numbered days, e.g., the second, fourth, sixth, etc., day of the month. If your address ends in an odd number, like 311, outdoor watering is allowed on odd-numbered days, e.g., the first, third, fifth, etc., day of the month. This plan is in effect year-round. For more details, visit cityofeagan.com/oddeven.

Annual Drinking Water Report: The City of Eagan’s water is safe and meets all standards for quality of drinking water. See the 2024 report at cityofeagan.com/drinkingwater. If you’d like a paper copy, call 651-675-5200

Help Conserve Water During Reservoir Rehab: The Safari Reservoir will be taken out of service temporarily for scheduled rehabilitation starting July 28. Crews will drain, sandblast, repair, and recoat the reservoir’s interior and exterior. While our water system can meet everyday demand without the reservoir, we’re asking residents to help reduce peak water use during the project to avoid extra strain on the system. Here are some easy ways you can help conserve water at home:

  • Repair running toilets (often caused by worn-out flappers)
  • Turn off the tap while brushing teeth or shaving
  • Take showers instead of baths
  • Run full loads in your dishwasher and laundry machines
  • Use native or drought-resistant plants
  • Water lawns slowly, deeply, and less frequently
  • Water early in the morning, close to the ground
  • Avoid irrigation during rain or wind
  • Install water-efficient appliances and fixtures

Our Utilities team will closely monitor the system and adjust as needed — but every drop saved by residents makes a difference. Thank you for doing your part to protect Eagan’s water supply.

Save Water & Money: To support smart water use, the City of Eagan offers a Water Conservation Rebate Program. Rebates are offered to Eagan residents who are served by City water when they purchase qualifying, water-saving products. You can find rebate info and the application at cityofeagan.com/conservewater#water-rebate.

Don't Flush Wipes: Whether it’s baby wipes, disinfecting wipes, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, facial tissues, or even wipes claiming to be “flushable,” the City of Eagan Utilities Division urges you not to flush them down the toilet. Flushing any of these items can cause huge issues for Eagan — and for your personal plumbing.


New Eagan Art House Is Open

Kids making clay sculptures on wooden table

Visit the beautiful new Eagan Art House at the grand opening on Saturday, Sept. 13, noon–4 p.m. The event takes place on the first day of Eagan Art Block, Sept. 13–27. See the newsletter insert for details. Learn more about Eagan Art House, get event and activity info, and register for classes and more at eaganarthouse.org.

The exterior and interior of the Eagan Art House exude warmth, light, and creativity
The exterior and interior of the Eagan Art House exude warmth, light, and creativity. Staff art is currently on display in the building’s lobby. Photo credit: Rick Graves.


Youth Speak At Sustainable Eagan Academy

The Sustainable Eagan Advisory Commission kicked off its first Sustainable Eagan Academy last year. This year’s program, built on the first year’s success, featured eight youth speakers from Eagan High School and the School of Environmental Studies (SES). Besides engaging young people, this youth involvement offered a platform for them to amplify their voices and bring diverse perspectives to the sessions. Youth speakers had the opportunity to choose their own sustainability topic and own presentation style. During the 2025 academy season, the topics presented by the youth speakers included:

  • The School of Environmental Studies Green Team
  • Electric Vehicles and Air Pollution
  • Composting and Food Waste
  • Indoor Plants and How to Bring Nature Inside
  • Youth Involvement in Sustainability

Student speakers gave the program a thumbs up. “Youth need to be involved in sustainability because they are the ones who will ultimately face the consequences of today’s actions,” one student said. “We are not afraid to think differently; our voices can reach far and wide, inspiring others to act. We aren’t just trying to help; we are insistent on making a change. After all, sustainability isn’t just about protecting the planet; it’s about protecting our future,” said another student.

Commission member honors SES students at Sustainable Eagan Academy.
Commission member honors SES students at Sustainable Eagan Academy.

2026 Youth Speaker Opportunities

Visit cityofeagan.com/volunteer to get involved in next year’s academy.


Events

Eagan Market Fest

Wednesdays through Aug. 27
4–8 p.m. | Eagan Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Pkwy. | Free
Eagan Market Fest is a great way to spend Wednesday evenings this summer, and it’s growing! Find details at cityofeagan.com/marketfest.

Food Truck Festival

Friday, Aug. 8 | 4–9 p.m.
Eagan Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Pkwy.
Bring friends and family members out for a night of great food (20+ food trucks!), live music, and local beverages. See event details at cityofeagan.com/foodtruck.

Lakefest 2025

Friday, Aug. 15| 4–7 p.m.
Schwanz Lake at Trapp Farm | Free
Learn about fishing and aquatic wildlife, play games, and build water-themed craft projects. No fishing license required. See details at cityofeagan.com/lakefest.

Cookies and Quilts with Otto and Ella

Sunday, Aug. 17 | 2–4 p.m.
Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Dr.  | Free
Visit the farmhouse to enjoy special cookies and beautiful quilts on display.

SPARK! Mobile

The Spark! Team presents original stories told by your favorite puppet friends in neighborhood parks. Selected performances feature ASL interpretation. See the Spark! Mobile’s schedule at cityofeagan.com/spark.

Series All Play

Tuesdays at Woodhaven Park, 1950 Gold Tr.
Thursdays at Quarry Park, 3340 Coachman Rd.
Through Thursday, Aug 21.
6–7:30 p.m. | Free
People of all abilities are invited to participate in programs and try new activities. No registration is required. See the schedule at cityofeagan.com/all-play.

Skate Eagan Open House

Thursday, Sept. 11 | 6–8 p.m.
Eagan Civic Arena, 3870 Pilot Knob Rd.  | Free
Test your puck-handling skills, skate alongside expert instructors, try out ice bumper cars, meet the Zamboni, and learn more about hockey and figure skating in Eagan.

Harvest Festival

Saturday, Sept. 20 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Dr.  | $3/person
Visit Historic Holz Farm for hayrides, live music, animals, demos, and more. Tickets are required for those 12 months and older, and are available at discovereagan.com or on site.

Sustainable Eagan Academy Special Event

Monday, Oct. 6| 6:30–8 p.m.
Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Pkwy.  | Free
Hear from expert speakers, learn about rebates and incentives, and learn how you can get personalized advice for your home. Find details at cityofeagan.com/sustainability.


Historic Town Hall Opens Its Door

At the corner of Pilot Knob and Wescott roads, across the street from the Eagan City Hall and Police Department, sits a little white building. This is the historic town hall, and you can take a peek inside during an open house on Sunday, Sept. 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“People are always amazed when they come in,” Eagan Historical Society member Lynae Gieseke says. Visitors can see photos of key people and places in Eagan, as well as some items from various historical periods. The original stove that was used to heat the building is still a centerpiece of the town hall.

The historical society opens the building up a few times a year during the warm months, holding a meeting and welcoming visitors to look around.

Eagan Historic Town Hall

“We’re always looking for historical items and photos from Eagan,” member Kim Hazel says. “If your grandparents have stories about growing up in Eagan, for example, we’d love to collect those.”

The group is always open to new members and volunteers. Learn more at cityofeagan.com/eagan-historical-society.


Art Block

Sept. 13-27, 2025

Join your neighbors in the heart of Eagan for a two-week celebration of art, learning, and community spaces. Eagan Art Block is for everyone! Kids, families, seniors, artists, and art enthusiasts alike will find their place. Find details and the full schedule at cityofeagan.com/artblock.

Eagan Art house Grand Opening Kicks Off At Art Block

Join the party Saturday, Sept. 13, noon–4 p.m.

  • Art on Fire raku firing (tiles)
  • Artist demonstrations
  • Building tours
  • Hands-on creative activities
  • Staff art exhibit on display

Indulge Your Tastebuds: Eagan Food Truck Festival

Friday, Aug. 8 | 4–9 p.m.
Eagan Festival Grounds | 1501 Central Pkwy.

Food. Music. Local brews. It’s the ultimate summer party, with more than 20 food trucks, live entertainment, and good vibes all around.

From sizzling gourmet burgers to global street eats and decadent desserts, our food truck lineup offers something for everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

Plus, enjoy a live music experience with TRIZ from 4 to 6 p.m. and PopROCKS from 6 to 9 p.m.

Alcohol service will be brought to you by the Eagan Athletic Association. Visitors must be 21+ to enjoy drinks from three local breweries.

Full details at cityofeagan.com/foodtruck.


Register Now! Preschool In the Park

Sign up for the 2025–26 school year today. Preschool classes begin the week of Sept. 8.

In our program, children ages 1 to 5 develop social skills and executive function through art projects, stories, songs, and indoor and outdoor play. Our philosophy is that play is how children learn and practice navigating the world around them. Through play, they work in groups; negotiate and resolve conflict; develop dexterity, self-help, and sharing skills; and learn to follow directions from teachers. Learning and play also take place while exploring the parks. Check out a virtual tour and other details at cityofeagan.com/preschool.

“At Preschool in the Park, every day was an adventure for Ruby. She cooked in the kitchen, played musical instruments in the class band, and discovered nature. Her teachers gently guided her play, helping her build social skills, express big emotions, and explore early math and language in ways that felt like fun, not work. She learned to share, take turns, and solve problems — all while giggling with new friends. Most of all, she felt safe, seen, and excited to come back each day. Her preschool wasn’t just a classroom — it was a place where her confidence and creativity bloomed.” — Annie S., mother of three alumni