SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A private house near Arrowhead Park in eastern Sioux Falls will be open for public use after a park improvement plan is completed.
The city started renovations on the Arrowhead Park House in the southwestern portion of Arrowhead Park on July 10, according to a park construction update. Arrowhead Park is at 710 S. River Bluff Road, near South Dakota Highway 42.
The house was once owned by Dale and Dorothy Weir and it, along with the other property that makes up Arrowhead park, was transferred to the city. The main area is about 2,440 square feet, said Jackie Nelson, the city’s recreation manager.
The main area will be converted into two meeting areas and a kitchen, Nelson said.
“The living room area, that will be flex space that can be set up differently,” Nelson said.
The opposite area will be a multi-purpose room. Two events can happen at the same time.
“There’s also a porch section that overlooks the quarry,” Nelson said.
Nelson said the parks and recreation department plans to use the renovated facility for programs, many of which will be outdoor-based. The facility will be available to the public when it is not being used by the city.
It’s suitable for family reunions, business meetings and similar, Nelson said. It’s similar to how Tuthill House is used, she said.
The renovated house will also feature a deck area of about 1,600 feet.
Arrowhead Park is home to several geese, ducks and other birds. Nelson said the deck area is another spot from which the public can watch birds and wildlife.
The birds and wildlife were so important to the Weirs, the deed transfer to the city required prohibiting of dogs, cats or other domestic animals in Arrowhead Park. Recreational equipment and other items were also restricted or prohibited in the deed.
Protecting the wildlife and the natural feel and look of the park was important to the Weirs, Nelson said.
The house renovation is one piece of a larger park project. The park’s trail are being improved. Starting Aug. 9, the remaining asphalt portions of the trail will be replaced with new concrete surfacing, and spot repairs will be made to selected concrete portions of the existing trail, the city said in a news release.
Arrowhead Park has two entrances at the northern end which and another one at the southern end which is accessed farther south on the gravel road.
The north and south parking lots in the park will close on Aug. 9 to allow for trail work. In addition to new concrete surfacing, spot repairs will be made to concrete parts of the existing trail.
The south parking lot, south walking loop, and restroom facilities will remain closed until early September. Temporary toilets will be available in the north parking lot.
Nelson said the house renovations are expected to be completed by the end of the year. Reservations will not be possible until early 2025.
Nelson said, once opened, the renovated house can be accessed from the north and the south through trails. The city plans to add or improve signs throughout the park.
