See all posts in the Mayor & Cities Corner series
(Chanhassen Corner is a regular feature where Chanhassen officials and various staff and contributors will share updates, insights, and messages with their communities. Communications Manager, Patrick Gavin is providing the current edition.)
As summer approaches, Chanhassen is buzzing with progress, events and community pride. Here’s a look at what’s happening in town.
Events & Activities
June 12 – Fishing with First Responders
Join us at Lake Ann Park Fishing Pier for a day of line-casting, conversation and community connection. Designed for kids ages 5 to 15, this fun event lets youth fish alongside members of the Chanhassen Fire Department. Two sessions are available, and space is limited.
June 17 – Safety Camp at the Rec Center
This one-day camp for kids entering grades 3 and 4 is packed with engaging lessons on bike safety, fire safety, water safety, basic first aid and more. Kids will get lunch, a snack, games and a free T-shirt. Presented by the Fire Department, Carver County Sheriff’s Office, Ridgeview and other local partners.
June 19 – Juneteenth Holiday
City offices will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Parks, recreation programs and Public Works services will continue as scheduled.
City News & Happenings
Celebrating our Public Works colleagues
To honor our public works colleagues for National Public Works Week, we put together a video tribute to those who help keep Chanhassen safe, clean and thriving.
Chaplain Steve Anderson Honored at First Responders Luncheon
At the SW Metro Chamber’s Third Annual First Responders Luncheon, our Chanhassen Fire Department Chaplain Steve Anderson was recognized for his ongoing service, compassion and support to both our first responders and the broader Chanhassen community.
Chanhassen Wins Distinguished Budget Award
The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awarded the City of Chanhassen its Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 2025 Budget Book. Congratulations to Finance Director Kelly Grinnell and the entire finance team for this outstanding achievement.
New “Local” video features Na’s Thai Cafe
Chanhassen is home to dozens of family-owned and local restaurants, including Na’s Thai Cafe, located in downtown Chanhassen at 566 W 78th St. Learn about Na Monthisane and her daughter, Christina Kirksey, their cuisine and how their small business impacts — and is impacted by — our community.
Pavement Management Video Series Launches
Why are some roads milled and others fully reconstructed? How are project decisions made? Our new six-part Pavement Management Plan video series answers your biggest questions about how Chanhassen maintains its 150+ miles of streets. The first episode covers how we choose which roads to repair — and why.
New Pedestrian Crossing Installed
A safer walk to City Center Park just got easier. Our new pedestrian crossing on Kerber Boulevard features design elements that slow traffic and protect walkers and bikers. Additional low-cost, high-impact improvements are coming to other locations soon.
Pickleball Court Upgrade at the Rec Center
Heads-up, players: Chanhassen Rec Center’s pickleball courts will be closed for approximately two weeks beginning May 27 for surface upgrades. In the meantime, courts at Roundhouse Park remain open and ready for play.
Digital Billboard Reminds Riders of e-Bike Laws
As more residents turn to e-bikes, we’re reminding riders of the rules. You must be at least 15 to ride a Class 3 e-bike, and under-18 riders must wear a helmet. Speed limits and traffic laws apply to all riders — no exceptions.
Water Conservation & Restrictions in Effect
Sprinkling restrictions began May 1. Watering is not allowed between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and must follow the odd/even schedule based on your address. Be mindful — irrigation is our largest summer water use and adds pressure on our water supply.
Summer Hours for City Offices Begin May 23
From May 23 to August 29, City Hall and most offices will operate summer hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This does not affect Parks & Rec programs, Public Works or the Senior Center.
Community Center & Civic Campus Update
Chanhassen Bluffs Community Center Progress
Following the successful referendum last fall, the City Council selected BKV Group as the project’s architectural team and approved the site at Powers Boulevard and Hwy 212. Council and staff recently toured regional facilities and began early design discussions with BKV. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026.
Save the Date – Senior Center Grand Opening
Mark your calendar: We’re planning a grand opening celebration for the brand-new Senior Center on Wednesday, October 1. Stay tuned for event details!
Step inside the new City Hall
Join us for a walking tour of Chanhassen’s new Civic Campus! Phase 1 of Chanhassen’s new Civic Campus — which includes a new City Hall and a Senior Center — is set to open in late summer. Things have been progressing nicely and, in this video, Kraus-Anderson’s Jack Bronczyk takes us through and around the building for a behind-the-scenes look at the progress. See how this exciting project is shaping up and learn more about the features that will serve our community for years to come.
In Case You Missed It
Arbor Day Poster Contest Winners Announced
Fifth graders across Chanhassen submitted beautiful artwork celebrating this year’s Arbor Day theme: “Trees are Terrific—for outdoor adventures!” Grand Prize winner Julian Milian’s framed artwork will hang in City Hall, and honorable mentions were awarded to students from Chanhassen and Bluff Creek Elementary. Congratulations to all!
Remembering the 1965 Tornado
May 6 marked 60 years since the devastating tornado outbreak that changed the Twin Cities forever. Chanhassen was struck but miraculously suffered no fatalities. We continue to honor the resilience of those affected.
See you around Chanhassen!
