We’re excited to announce that the City of Kenyon has been selected to participate in the Empowering Small Minnesota Cities (ESMC) program in 2025!
Established by the State of Minnesota during the 2023 legislative session, the ESMC program is designed to support small communities—defined as those with fewer than 15,000 residents—by increasing their capacity to develop resilient, sustainable, and adaptable infrastructure projects.
The program is collaboratively led by several partners at the University of Minnesota, including:
• Center for Transportation Studies
• U of M Extension Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships
• Minnesota Design Center
• Humphrey School of Public Affairs
• Center for Urban and Regional Affairs
Additional researchers will be engaged based on each community’s needs.
While the ESMC program does not provide direct funding, it offers participating communities access to University of Minnesota teams who help develop and strengthen project ideas, laying the groundwork for future competitive funding opportunities.
Depot Park Revitalization
Based on input from the Urban and Regional Studies Institute at Minnesota State University, Mankato, the revitalization of Depot Park was identified as a high-priority initiative by Kenyon residents.
Key community goals for Depot Park include:
• Bringing the park into ADA compliance
• Increasing shaded areas for comfort and usability
• Introducing a walking path to enhance accessibility
• Upgrading existing amenities and adding new features to serve people of all ages and abilities
Depot Park is a historic and central space in Kenyon, and these improvements are intended to make it a more welcoming and inclusive gathering place for the entire community.
Citywide Trails Initiative
In addition to park improvements, the Kenyon Park Board conducted an online community survey in 2024. Results showed that 71% of respondents believe developing trails throughout Kenyon should be a major focus.
This initiative aims to:
• Create safe, accessible pathways that connect neighborhoods and key locations
• Promote active living and recreation
• Unite all areas of the city through a thoughtful, connected trail system
Enhancing the trail network will support the health, safety, and connectivity of our residents— now and for generations to come.
What’s Next?
We’ll continue to keep you updated about the ESMC process and its benefits to Kenyon. As opportunities arise for community involvement, we encourage residents to take part and help shape these exciting projects.
Stay tuned, Kenyon—your voice matters and your involvement in this process starting in June will help build a stronger future for all.
For more detailed information check out the link below.
https://www.cts.umn.edu/programs/empoweringcommunities
