Since 2009 when the Zander Park Open Space Plan was adopted, the park was envisioned as “the core public space in the heart of the community, a balance between the natural vegetative landscape and a functional multi-use family park.” The Village’s Comprehensive Plan adopted in 2018 indicated that “H.M. Zander park has the potential to be a prime gathering space and signature destination for residents and visitors”, specifically by adding a pavilion that can host community programs and events.
The project vision was presented for public input in 2019, followed by a needs assessment and park master plan. The Village issued an RFP to conduct a feasibility study and develop a proposed conceptual plan. The proposal was approved by the Village Board in 2020. The Board then entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Cross Plains Lions in 2021. In 2022, a 501.c.3 partnership with Gateway to the Driftless was established to support the Lions Club Capital Fundraising Campaign.
The full project is estimated to cost $500,000 to complete. To date, the Cross Plains Lions have raised over $120,000 towards the project. The Village of Cross Plains has also secured a $249,000 matching grant to support!
Accessible portable toilets will be available seasonally near the pavilion and placed outside of the floodplain.
The Village of Cross Plains has agreed to support ongoing maintenance of the Pavilion after completion. The Village will coordinate the scheduling of pavilion rental by the community and permitting of special events by event organizers that will utilize the pavilion.
The proposed design was recommended and approved for construction in the Black Earth Creek floodplain based on the outcomes of the feasibility study conducted in 2020. Design considerations, including limiting the size and number of posts for the structure and utilizing a cut concrete slab with footings to prevent frost heaving, will ensure that the pavilion does not obstruct water flow through the park during flood events.
The pavilion will be available on a first come first serve basis for picnics and informal gatherings for all members of the community. The pavilion may be reserved through the Village for private gatherings, such as birthday parties, family reunions, weddings, graduation parties, etc. In addition the Village will permit community events that wish to use the pavilion, including movies, musical performances and cultural events.
A community-led initiative to benefit all of the Driftless Area.
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