This is your opportunity to be a part of Kenyon’s "Empowering Small Minnesota Communities (ESMC) Project". It is being called the Depot Park & Safe Trails Throughout Kenyon Project. The City of Kenyon has been selected for the 2025 Empowering Small Minnesota Cities (ESMC) program! Created by the State of Minnesota in 2023 with strong bipartisan support, the ESMC program helps small towns (under 15,000 residents) strengthen their infrastructure— especially parks, trails, and public spaces—to build more resilient, connected communities. Through this year-long partnership with the University of Minnesota, Kenyon will plan and prioritize projects that position us for future state and federal grant opportunities.
Why does your voice matter? To ensure these projects reflect Kenyon’s true needs and values, community input is essential. Your ideas and feedback will help shape plans that improve quality of life, accessibility, and connection for everyone who calls Kenyon home. Community engagement efforts in 2023 (in partnership with Minnesota State University, Mankato) revealed two major community priorities: These are the Depot Park Revitalization, and Expanded Sidewalks and Trail Connectivity. With support from the University of Minnesota, we’re now exploring how to bring these ideas to life in a strategic and community-centered way. Depot Park is one of Kenyon’s most iconic spaces—and residents have big dreams for it! Based on previous studies and public input, priorities include: 1) Bringing the park into ADA compliance, 2) Increasing shade for comfort and usability, 3) Creating a walking path for accessibility and exercise and 4) Upgrading amenities and adding new features for all ages and abilities. This work will help transform Depot Park into a more welcoming, inclusive and active gathering place for everyone.
Safe and connected trails are a priority to our residents for building a healthier Kenyon. In a 2024 Park Board community survey, 71% of respondents said that developing trails should be a top priority. Kenyon’s vision includes building safe, accessible pathways connecting neighborhoods, parks, schools, and key destinations. This will in turn encourage active living, health, and outdoor recreation. A paved nature trail crossing the river from Trondheim to Depot Park will help unify all areas of town while supporting long-term health, safety, and mobility for residents of all ages.
This project is about more than parks and sidewalks—it’s about creating a stronger, safer, and more connected Kenyon. By planning thoughtfully and collaboratively, we’ll be ready to pursue grants that help:
• Improve life for current residents
• Attract future families and investment
• Build a town that thrives for generations to come.
Let's dream big—together. Visit our booth at Rose Fest Saturday, August 16 • 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM! Stop by to learn more about the ESMC project, ask questions, and share your ideas for Kenyon’s future. We’d love to hear from you! Can’t make it to Rose Fest? No problem! You’ll also find us at: Fall Fest, Trunk or Treat, and Christmas in Kenyon. We’re excited to connect with you and make this a truly community-driven effort!
