Sleepy Eye development plans discussed at workshop

By FRITZ BUSCH

Journal Staff Writer

SLEEPY EYE -- Sleepy Eye development plans were revealed June 26 at Master Plan Workshop III at the Orchid Inn.

Hosted by Eagan architect Fred Sabongi, the concept development and design workshop -- third in a series of four -- included Peter McEnery of Sanders, Wacker, Bergly Inc., Landscape Architects and Planners of St. Paul and Jim Pederson of Illum-A-Nation Outdoor Architectural Lighting of Forest Lake.

Sabongi had positive things to say about Sleepy Eye.

"You've got many elements here that most cities would give anything for -- a lake, parks, two busy highways, great schools, roads, lots of gorgeous, historic buildings with nice fronts downtown and houses with lots of historical significance," Sabongi said.

He showed drawings of many types of street lights. Sabongi's artist renderings of Sleepy Eye redevelopment will include tear-drop decorative street lights with ornamental arms. Street light poles had banner flags depicting Chief Sleepy Eye and the City of Sleepy Eye written below.

"You have cobra-head street lights that light up the tops of people heads and the road," Sabongi said. "Globe lights are also attractive but more prone to vandalism."

Sleepy Eye residents Conrad Mattson and Brad Mathiowetz voiced their feelings. Mattson said it was important to match the street lights with existing downtown buildings. Mathiowetz suggested adding street lights to downtown parking lots.

Sabongi favored paver stones instead of poured concrete if sidewalks are replaced. He recommended adding trees and downtown benches with arms at the ends and in between to prevent people from falling asleep or falling off the benches.

Community point of entry signs were also discussed. Support for pre-cast concrete was made since it is maintenance-free. Sleepy Eye Mayor Jim Broich voiced interest in adding message boards to the signs.

Sleepy Eye Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Birdie Logue favored creating point of entry signs from engraved granite from Borth Memorials of Sleepy Eye.

Sabongi mentioned adding downtown bump-outs, which would create larger sidewalk areas at intersections. Sleepy Eye resident Harry Windschitl wondered if bump-outs would impede semi trucks making turns.

Several people at the meeting said development should focus on Sleepy Eye Lake.

Sleepy Eye City Manager Mark Kober said the city will apply for a state grant this year that would include walk ways for biking, walking and jogging and more lighting around the lake and other lake improvements using Sabongi's design concepts and easements.

"We plan to apply for the grant this year," Kober said. "The project wouldn't be considered for funding until 2006."

Sabongi's plans will attempt to create a "bridge feeling" on walk ways along the lake.

The final workshop with artist drawings will be held Wednesday, Aug. 7.

"You'll be able to visualize the entire plan in August," Sabongi said. "You need to mandate projects. Without that, things won't happen. Despite the conservative economy, you need to work on at least one project each year."

Sabongi is particularly interested in getting a grant to help restore the former Sleepy Eye Milling Co. building that he feels has great historical significance and value as a tourist destination.