The City of Albert Lea is working to bring a private marina to Fountain Lake.
The Albert Lea City Council voted to seek proposals from developers interest in taking up the project, which would replace the existing skate park and restrooms near City Beach. If a bid is accepted, the beach would remain a public park, while the skate park would move to a different location.
The city’s goal is to enhance amenities on Fountain Lake by providing additional dock space, new restrooms and possibly, a new restaurant.
However, some locals have reservations about a marina being built at that specific spot on Fountain Lake, with one resident telling the Council that streets near City Beach are already prone to significant congestion during summer months.
The city is setting the asking price for the property at $250,000 and has already met with one potential developer for the marina. On Monday, the Albert Lea City Council also signed off on requesting proposals to redevelop three vacant lots owned by the city with the hope of attracting new housing, retail, light industrial or warehousing developments.