Focus on Small Cities
Lonsdale’s New Skate Park Exceeds Expectations in Its First Year
Lonsdale’s skate park, in its first season, is already a popular spot.
Progress Slow, but Present in Appleton
The City of Appleton is rebounding since the 1,640-bed Prairie Correctional Facility closed in 2010.
Howard Lake Set to Open State’s First Net-Zero Library
Howard Lake is set to open a new, net-zero library building that counterbalances the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced…
Gnome Man’s Land: Mysterious Norwegian Characters Put Peterson on the Map
Peterson, MN, population 234, has become a tourist attraction thanks to a growing population of Norwegian gnomes.
Spring Grove Advances 2023 Plan With Help From Rural Design Cohort Program
The Spring Grove 2030 initiative developed plans that included the idea of creating a new community space in Spring Grove.
Empire — Minnesota’s Newest City — Was Years in the Making
Empire township applied in early 2022 to become Minnesota’s newest city, protecting its borders for future growth.
Small Cities Tackle Large Projects With Grants
Cromwell’s success illustrates the importance of grants to small cities.
Sartell Partners with School District for IT Assistance
The City of Sartell, in partnership with school district technology staff, has developed a successful solution to meet their IT…
Bigfork Steps Up to the Plate for Community
Joe Zimmer and his public works team stepped up to build a new softball complex for the City of Bigfork.
City of Gary Reimagines 160 Acres of Forest
The City of Gary turned 160 acres of donated land into a multi-use recreational area.