The City of Plymouth is set to hold Discover Plymouth – which will also feature the annual State of the City address – Saturday, March 21 inside the Plymouth Community Center Fieldhouse dome, 14800 34th Ave. N. 

Discover Plymouth

An all-about-Plymouth event that showcases the community, Discover Plymouth is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

The free event features local businesses, community groups, nonprofit organizations, representatives from various departments in the city, recreation activities, volunteer opportunities, community services and more. An indoor marketplace will be available, featuring local vendors selling homemade and handmade items, and other goods and services. 

Discover Plymouth attendees can talk with city staff and elected officials, discover ways to get involved in the community, and learn about city events, services and happenings. 

The event will also include a young entrepreneur section for youth, ages 18 and younger, to showcase their products and services.

Discover Plymouth includes activities for children,including inflatables, crafts and other attractions. 

A touch-a-truck exhibit will be available in the Plymouth Community Center parking lot, and attendees may explore a variety of large equipment and vehicles, courtesy of the Public Works Department, Parks and Forestry Division and Public Safety Department.

State of the City begins at 10 a.m.

The annual State of the City address returns 10 a.m. Saturday, March 21 as part of Discover Plymouth. 

The address covers a range of city topics, including a recap of Plymouth’s past year and updates about developments and park projects, city infrastructure, business news, successfully completed projects, and more. 

The address will conclude with a question-and-answer session featuring Plymouth City Council members, facilitated by Dave Kiser from CCX Media. Residents are invited to stick around after the address to meet Plymouth City Council members.

The Plymouth Ice Center is set to host the 2026 Chipotle-USA Hockey High School National Championships, in partnership with Wayzata Youth Hockey Association, March 18-22.

The event will bring together more than 60 of the top boys and girls high school teams from USA Hockey’s 12 districts to the main tournament site – the Plymouth Ice Center,
3650 Plymouth Blvd.

“We’re excited to welcome the best high school hockey teams in the country and thousands of visitors,” Plymouth Ice Center Manager Erik Halverson said. “High-profile tournaments like this put the Plymouth Ice Center on the national stage and boost the local economy, benefitting area restaurants, hotels and retailers.”

National tournaments bring large numbers of tournament-goers, who spend significant dollars on lodging, food, transportation, supplies, gear and entertainment while they’re in the area. 

The Plymouth Ice Center and Wayzata Youth Hockey Association previously hosted the USA Hockey High School National Championships in 2023 and 2018.

About the Plymouth Ice Center

Drawing more than 600,000 visitors a year, the Plymouth Ice Center is one of the busiest ice arenas in Minnesota. Home to Wayzata Youth Hockey Association, the second largest youth hockey association in the state, the Plymouth Ice Center also serves as home ice for Wayzata High School boys and girls hockey programs, and Providence Academy high school hockey. Additionally, the regional facility houses an elite hockey training program.

Learn about the Plymouth Ice Center at plymouthmn.gov/pic.

The Plymouth Fire Department is set to hire part-time/on-call firefighters – and interested community members are encouraged to apply. 

The application period for this vital and fulfilling position opens Monday, April 6. The position is designed to be flexible to accommodate parents with children and those working full-time jobs. No experience is needed, and paid training is provided.

“We’re asking residents to answer the call to serve,” said Fire Chief Andy Etzel. “It’s about more than responding to fires – it’s about taking care of neighbors, strengthening our community and making a difference during critical moments.” 

Attend a Recruitment Meeting

Firefighter recruitment meetings are set for 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 4 and June 11 at Plymouth Fire Station 2, 12000 Old Rockford Road. Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend one of the meetings to speak with firefighters and ask questions. Attendees are encouraged to bring their spouse or significant other.

“Many of our firefighters started by simply showing up to a recruitment meeting,” said Etzel. “These meetings are for anyone with even the slightest interest in the position. It’s a great way to learn about the job, ask questions, take a tour of the station and more.”

About the Job, Benefits

While Plymouth firefighters respond to emergency calls for fires, medical incidents, vehicle crashes and more, the job also offers the opportunity to:

• Learn lifelong critical thinking skills that will benefit all aspects of life
• Build friendships
• Earn an hourly wage for all on-duty activities, including training
• Become partially vested for a pension after five years of service, with full vesting at 10 years
• Operate out of two new fire stations
• Optionally defer up to 100% of wages to a Roth IRA or traditional 457 retirement plan

Candidates must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent, reside within a 12-minute travel time to a Plymouth fire station and possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license.

Learn More and Apply 

Applications will be accepted Monday, April 6 through Friday, July 10. For more information about the position and to apply, visit plymouthmn.gov/firefighter. 

Residents with questions may also call the firefighter recruitment line at 763-509-5129 and leave a voicemail – firefighters will return calls and answer questions – or email firefighterrecruitment@plymouthmn.gov.

Primavera is April 23-26

Plymouth’s annual springtime celebration of the arts, Primavera is set for April 23-26 at the Plymouth Community Center, 14800 34th Ave. N. A partnership of the City of Plymouth and Plymouth Arts Council, the free event provides an opportunity for the public to view and celebrate fine art. Original juried artwork by local and regional artists, as well as artwork by Plymouth area high school students, will be featured in the art gallery and Plymouth Room (ballroom) at the Community Center. For exhibit hours and other details, visit plymouthmn.gov/primavera.

Pint-Sized Prom is April 10

Pint-Sized Prom is set for 6-8 p.m. Friday, April 10 at the Plymouth Community Center, 14800 34th Ave. N. The event is geared towards children ages 3-10 with an accompanying parent, grandparent or special adult. Participants may walk the red carpet and enjoy an evening of dancing, photo opportunities and refreshments. Cost per couple is $30 for Plymouth residents or $36 for non-residents. Learn more at plymouthmn.gov/specialevents.

Pie Day is Friday, March 6

The community is invited to participate in the annual Pie Day fundraiser 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, March 6 at the Plymouth Community Center, 14800 34th Ave. N. Slices of cherry, apple, wildberry (no sugar added), lemon meringue, coconut cream, banana cream and French silk pie will be served with ice cream. Cost is $5 per slice with an ice cream cup, or $25 per pie with six cups of ice cream. Gluten free and vegan pie options will be available for $7 per slice. 

Money raised through the fundraiser helps support programming for seniors/active adults ages 55 and older. The Plymouth Rockers Performing Senior Chorus is set to take the stage at 11 a.m. during the event. For details, call the Plymouth Parks and Recreation Department at 763-509-5200.

Meet your Neighbor Series

This free series helps foster community connection through the lens of education and cultural exploration. The following events will be held at the Plymouth Community Center, 14800 34th Ave. N.:  

• An Afternoon in Kenya: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, March 28. Learn about the beauty and culture of Kenya.
• Learn the Basics of Autism Spectrum Disorder: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 22. This class shines a light on autism with compassion, clarity and celebration of neurodiversity. 

Those interested in attending must register in advance at plymouthmn.gov/specialevents.

The City of Plymouth is seeking residents interested in serving as paid election judges for the State Primary (Tuesday, Aug. 11) and General Election (Tuesday, Nov. 3). 

Election judges play an important role in administering elections. Any person who is eligible to vote is qualified to be appointed as an election judge, with the following exceptions: 

• Individuals who are unable to read, write or speak English;
• The spouse, parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, sibling or stepsibling of any election judge serving in the same precinct or of any candidate in that election;
• Someone who lives in the same house with any candidate on the ballot at that election; or
• A candidate in that election

Required Training

Prior to serving, all election judges are required to complete a paid training in July, which takes approximately two hours.

How to Apply

Email elections@plymouthmn.gov by Friday, May 1 to receive a link to apply.

Below is a list of various projects slated for the upcoming construction season. The City of Plymouth reminds motorists to pay attention to signage, slow down in construction zones and provide crews space to work safely.

Chankahda Trail Phase 3

Chankahda Trail will be reconstructed from Cheshire Parkway to Northwest Boulevard in 2026. This project includes installation of concrete curb and gutter, storm sewer improvements, water quality improvements, and trails. At press time, the contractor was constructing the boardwalk on the north side of Lake Camelot. Private utility companies have also continued relocating infrastructure from Cheshire Parkway to Northwest Boulevard in preparation for road construction.

For details about the project, visit plymouthmn.gov/chankahda. 

Station 73 TRIP

Station 73 TRIP (Transit and Regional Improvement Program) construction is set to continue this spring. This year’s work will focus on improvements to roadways north and south of Highway 55, including South Shore Drive, 10th Avenue, the realigned County Road 73, Old County Road 15 and Zachary Lane. Highway 55, which was closed last summer during construction, will remain open to traffic.  

Station 73 TRIP was developed to make regionally impactful improvements to increase safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit users in the area around Highway 55 and County Road 73. For more information about the project, visit plymouthmn.gov/station73trip.

Residents with questions or concerns may contact the project hotline and email address at 763-251-1010 or info@station73trip.com.

Peony Lane and 10th Avenue Area Rehabilitation Project

A pavement rehabilitation project will take place in 2026 and will cover the following areas:

• Peony Lane from Wayzata High School to Highway 55
• 10th Avenue from Trenton Circle to Kilmer Lane
• Nathan Lane from 10th to 13th avenues
• 13th Avenue from Nathan Lane to Highway 169 ramps

In addition to pavement, the project involves rehabilitation of the Peony Lane bridge over the Canadian Pacific Railroad, installing concrete pedestrian ramps, replacing concrete curb and gutter, and repairing water main valves, storm sewer catch basins and sanitary sewer manholes.

For more information visit plymouthmn.gov/peonyand10th.

2026 Street Reconstruction Project

The Birch Briar neighborhood and Highway 55 frontage road between 15th Avenue and Cottonwood Lane will undergo construction beginning this spring. 

Construction will include new pavement, installation of concrete curb and gutter, storm sewer improvements, and replacement of the existing water main. 

For more information visit plymouthmn.gov/2026streetrecon.

2026 Street Rehabilitation Project

The 2026 pavement management project will include the following areas:

• Zachary Lane from Rockford Road to 36th Avenue
• Holly Lane from 46th Avenue to Old Rockford Road
• Amhurst neighborhood, southeast of Schmidt Lake Road and Vicksburg Lane

In addition to pavement work, crews will install concrete pedestrian ramps, replace concrete curb and gutter, and repair water main valves, storm sewer catch basins and sanitary sewer manholes.

For more information visit plymouthmn.gov/2026streetrehab.

MnDOT: Highway 12 from Wayzata to I-494

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is set to rebuild Highway 12 between Shoreline Drive in Wayzata and Interstate 494 near Minnetonka from April through November.

In addition to rebuilding and resurfacing the pavement/concrete on Highway 12, the project will include repairs to various ramps in the area. 

Motorists should expect delays, as well as lane and ramp closures throughout construction. MnDOT also anticipates one weekend closure in each direction of Highway 12.

For more information, visit dot.state.mn.us.

Below are upcoming volunteer opportunities: 

• Plymouth Community Center Art Ambassador: Answer questions about rotating art exhibits during the late afternoon/evening and weekends. Must be age 16 or older. 
• Historical Document Transcription: Transcribe historical documents that help tell the story of Plymouth’s history. Must be age 16 or older and able to read cursive handwriting. Volunteers can work at their own pace as time allows, and the work can be done remotely. 
• Assist with Parks and Recreation Special Events: Primavera (April 23-26); Tree and Shrub Sale pickup (May 8-9); or Bark in the Park (May 16). Must be age 16 or older.
• Drop-Off Days: Assist with a variety of tasks during the annual Drop-Off Days (May 1-2) – a highly attended drive-through event where residents can dispose of and recycle select household items. Must be age 16 or older.

To find out more about these and other upcoming opportunities, visit plymouthmn.gov/volunteer or email volunteer@plymouthmn.gov.

Plymouth Police Reserves help enhance public safety, community

Supporting the work of sworn Plymouth police officers, the Plymouth Police Reserves are a dedicated team that performs a wide range of public safety duties as uniformed volunteers.

In 2025, the program had a banner year – contributing more hours than previous years and providing increasing levels of support. The group contributed more than 3,100 hours of volunteer time through the Reserve program last year – averaging 155 hours per Reserve officer. 

“Our department benefits immensely from the dedicated, friendly and professional work of the Reserves – and we can’t thank them enough for their contributions,” said Public Safety Director Erik Fadden. 

Police Reserves support the community by:

• Providing security and traffic direction at events in Plymouth and neighboring communities
• Assisting patrol officers with transports, bookings and service-related calls
• Serving as role players during scenario-based training with the Plymouth SWAT team, Patrol Division and the Plymouth Police Explorer program
• Assisting with traffic crashes, crowd control, weather-related emergencies and other significant public safety incidents

Police Reserves come from all walks of life and have diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. The program is open to applicants ages 18 or older who are available to contribute 15 hours of service per month and attend one monthly meeting. Applicants must also pass a background check.

To learn more about the Plymouth Police Reserves, or to join the team, visit plymouthmn.gov/reserves.

The City of Plymouth recently welcomed two new members to its leadership team with the appointments of Fire Chief Andy Etzel and Deputy City Manager Amanda Kaufman. 

Andy Etzel

Plymouth City Manager Dave Callister and Public Safety Director/Police Chief Erik Fadden announced the appointment of Andy Etzel to the position of Plymouth fire chief in January.
A 20-year veteran of the Plymouth Fire Department, Etzel most recently held the position of assistant fire chief, an appointment that began in December 2024, and was subsequently named interim fire chief in November 2025.

As Plymouth fire chief, Etzel oversees Fire Department operations and staff – comprised of a blend of full-time career firefighters, part-time/on-call firefighters, leadership staff and fire inspectors – which respond to an array of fire, emergency, traffic crash and medical calls. Etzel noted that his vision is to lead a professional, city values-driven, and forward-looking department that delivers reliable emergency response through strong staffing, modern training and effective leadership.

“My priority will be continuing to create a culture of excellence where professionalism, pride, teamwork and positive attitudes are expected, modeled and reinforced at every level,” said Etzel. “Building a strong shared identity and mission will strengthen the department and allow us to better serve the community.”

Etzel grew up in Plymouth, graduated from Wayzata High School and has served the community as a member of the Plymouth Fire Department for the past 20 years. 

He was first hired as a paid-on-call firefighter in 2006 and was subsequently promoted to paid-on-call lieutenant in 2010, paid-on-call captain in 2013, battalion chief in 2016, assistant chief in 2024 and interim fire chief in 2025.

“Andy has a stellar track record of building strong relationships and trust, both within the Fire Department and the community,” said Callister. “Andy is humble and kind. He’s a great leader who will do excellent at the helm of the Fire Department.”

Amanda Kaufman

Amanda Kaufman began work as Plymouth’s new deputy city manager in December 2025. She brings more than a decade of municipal leadership experience to her new role. 

As Plymouth’s deputy city manager, Kaufman works with Callister to continue providing strategic direction, vision and leadership for the city, and oversees the City Clerk, Communications and Information Technology divisions of the Administrative Services Department.

“Amanda has a track record of strong leadership, effective communication and strategic planning,” said Callister. “She brings a wealth of experience overseeing nearly every functional area of local government and I am excited for her future accomplishments in Plymouth.”

Prior to beginning work in Plymouth, Kaufman held the position of assistant city manager for the City of Staunton, Virginia. Her previous experience also includes serving as deputy county administrator for Bedford County, Virginia and deputy city manager for the City of Marion, Iowa.

“I am thrilled for this opportunity to serve in the role of deputy city manager for the City of Plymouth,” said Kaufman. “I am looking forward to working alongside the city’s dedicated staff to serve this wonderful community.”

Kaufman holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration and political science from Winona State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School of Government.

The city offers reminders for residents about the rules for peddlers and solicitors going door to door in Plymouth. 

According to Plymouth City Code 1140, a peddler license is required in most circumstances. Permitted hours for door-to-door sales are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Peddlers must carry their licenses, which feature a photo and expiration date. 

Peddlers/solicitors cannot harass, intimidate, abuse or threaten residents. If peddlers or solicitors are told to leave, they must comply. Residents with concerns and complaints about a solicitor should call the 24-hour non-emergency line at 952-258-5321 as soon as possible. 

Notices that read “Peddlers and Solicitors Prohibited” – which may be posted near the entrance to a home or business – legally prohibit uninvited people from selling goods or services or seeking financial contributions, even if they hold a peddlers license issued by the City of Plymouth. 

Signs must be at least 3.75-square inches in size. Residents may pick up a free “Peddlers and Solicitors Prohibited” window cling during normal business hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday) while supplies last at the Plymouth Public Safety Building, 3400 Plymouth Blvd. 

Plymouth does not allow peddlers, solicitors or transient merchants to do the following: 

• Obstruct the flow of vehicular or pedestrian traffic on any street, alley, sidewalk or other public right-of-way
• Create a threat to the health, safety or welfare of any individual or the general public
• Cry out, blow a horn, ring a bell or make any loud or unusual noise in areas zoned for residential use 
• Walk through any side or rear yard, rather than using the front/main door, to attempt to make contact

Two Plymouth companies recently made the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal’s list of largest minority-owned businesses, based on 2025 revenue. Absolute Commercial Flooring Inc. ranked No. 10 on the list, and Pihlstrom Consulting Group ranked No. 57.

Philips received the Governor’s International Trade Award in January, which recognizes Minnesota companies that have shown exceptional progress and success in exports to foreign markets, as well as foreign-owned companies that have made significant economic contributions through their investments in the state. Philips is set to invest $31 million in an Image Guided Therapy facility in Plymouth to establish a new Center of Excellence for Medical Technology and Global Customer MedTech Training Center, which is expected to create 118 new jobs over three years.

Low-Cost Rain Barrels, Compost Bins

To help promote environmental stewardship, the city is selling low-cost rain barrels and compost bins. Rain barrels help conserve water by capturing rain and stormwater runoff to use for landscaping. Using a compost bin reduces waste and provides natural fertilizer for gardens. To purchase a rain barrel or compost bin, visit plymouthmn.gov/environment. 

A printed or digital receipt of purchase must be presented when picking up. Orders may be picked up from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 9 at the Plymouth Maintenance Facility, 14900 23rd Ave. N. Compost bins cost $76, plus tax. A 45-gallon rain barrel is $90, plus tax. Supply is limited and purchases are first come, first served.

Water Efficiency Rebate Program

To encourage conservation and reduce municipal water use, the City of Plymouth is accepting Water Efficiency Rebate Program applications. Funded, in part, by a grant from the Metropolitan Council, the program offers rebates for projects that replace inefficient toilets, irrigation systems, dishwashers and washing machines with WaterSense® or Energy Star® certified versions. 

are exhausted, whichever comes first.

Tree Sale

The City of Plymouth’s annual tree and shrub sale begins Monday, March 2 for Plymouth residents. The sale features shade trees, evergreens, shrubs and fruit plants. Orders will be accepted through Thursday, April 30. Orders must be picked up Friday, May 8 or Saturday, May 9 at the Plymouth Maintenance Facility. To place an order or watch preview videos that provide information about this year’s selection of trees and shrubs, visit plymouthmn.gov/treesale.

Note: The Planting for Pollinators workshop has reached full capacity and is no longer accepting registrants.

__________________________

The City of Plymouth will host a Planting for Pollinators workshop 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24 at the Plymouth Community Center, 14800 34th Ave. N.

The workshop will help residents learn how to attract bees, butterflies and birds by selecting plants and designing native plant gardens that support pollinators and enhance outdoor spaces. Metro Blooms Design + Build landscape designers will lead a presentation on pollinator-friendly plantings and land care practices that can be used in home gardens. Following the presentation, attendees will meet in small groups with landscape designers and master gardeners to discuss project ideas and plans. 

Topics include selecting native trees and shrubs, designing a native plant garden, and pollinator-friendly maintenance practices.

The workshop is free for Plymouth residents, but preregistration is required. Register online at plymouthmn.gov.

For more information about the activities below, and to volunteer, contact 763-509-5230
or volunteer@plymouthmn.gov.

Storm Drain Marking

Mark neighborhood storm drains to remind passersby that stormwater drains untreated into wetlands and lakes. This initiative is flexible and great for families or scout projects. Storm drain marking begins for the season when temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees.

Volunteer to Adopt a Spot

Help keep the city clean and safe by adopting a “spot” in Plymouth – including a park, garden, dog waste station (bags supplied), fire hydrant, storm drain or street. The City of Plymouth encourages residents to adopt a storm drain, and clean up leaves and debris to protect rivers, lakes, wetlands and streams from excess pollutants and nutrients, which can cause unwanted algae growth. 

View more information and a map of available spots at plymouthmn.gov/adoptaspot.

Millennium Garden Work Sessions

To help keep the garden looking lovely, join city staff as they weed, deadhead and prune the Plymouth Community Center’s Millennium Garden, 14800 34th Ave. N. Sessions are scheduled 9-11 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month from May through September.

Participants should bring their favorite gardening tools and a water bottle.

Native Plant Garden Club

Community members interested in supporting the city’s newer native planting areas are invited to participate in the Native Plant Garden Club. 

This active group of green thumbs helps with weeding, pruning, planting and more at Fazendin Park, 17040 24th Ave. N.

Residents may recycle unused winter deicing salt March 1-June 30 by dropping it off in the designated bins at the Plymouth Maintenance Facility, 14900 23rd Ave. N.

Collection bins marked specifically for salt are on the west side of the facility near the fuel pumps and oil drop-off station. Residents must remove salt from bags, buckets, or other containers during drop-off. All salt collected will be reused by the City of Plymouth during future winters. Water softener salt, pellets and other types of salt are not accepted.

Weekly Curbside Organics Recycling

Residents may also sign up for curbside organics recycling collection, a service available to all Plymouth households through the city’s recycling contractor, Republic Services. All households pay for organics recycling through their utility bill, like regular recycling, and there is no additional charge to participate in the service. 

Residents who sign up will receive a 35-gallon organics cart that will be collected weekly on the same day as garbage day.

For organics recycling programs to be successful, participants must ensure that only accepted materials are placed in organics carts.

Materials accepted include:

• All food – fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, bones, eggs, pasta and more 
• Food-soiled paper products – pizza boxes, napkins, paper towels
• Certified compostable products – compostable paper, plastic cups, plates, bowls, utensils and containers
• Other compostable household items – coffee grounds and filters, cotton balls and swabs with paper stems, houseplants and flowers, wooden items such as chopsticks, popsicle sticks and toothpicks

Not Accepted: Yard waste, bandages, diapers, animal and pet waste, litter or bedding, cleaning or baby wipes, grease or oil, Styrofoam™, dryer sheets, regular recyclable items (cartons, glass, metal, paper, plastic), frozen food boxes, microwave popcorn bags, gum, fast food wrappers and products labeled biodegradable.

Plymouth residents may also drop off organics 24/7 at the Recycling Drop-Off Site adjacent to the Plymouth Maintenance Facility, 14900 23rd Ave. N.

To learn more and sign up, visit plymouthmn.gov/organics.

The City of Plymouth offers tips to mitigate yard drainage issues, which can be common with Plymouth’s clay-heavy soil. 

Clay soil is comprised of fine particles packed tightly together, slowing the rate at which water moves into the ground. When water is applied faster than the soil can absorb it, particularly after heavy rain, it can lead to runoff, standing water and soggy lawns, and stressed plants or increased landscape maintenance.

The City of Plymouth encourages residents to consider the following practices to help manage drainage and improve water movement in their yards.

Adjust Irrigation Practices

Clay soil absorbs water slowly but holds moisture for longer periods. Watering less frequently and applying water at a slower rate can reduce runoff and allow moisture to soak in more effectively.

Residents are encouraged to check soil moisture 4 to 6 inches below the surface before irrigating again. Avoid calendar-based watering schedules and, instead, use soil probes, moisture sensors or manual checks to help prevent overwatering.

Drip irrigation systems and soaker hoses deliver water slower than traditional sprinklers and may be better suited for clay soils. Residents may be eligible for certain upgrades through the city’s Water Efficiency Rebate Program.

Add Organic Matter

Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, can improve soil structure over time. Organic material increases pore space in compacted soils, which can help store water more evenly underground. Compost can be mixed into garden beds or applied as a top dressing on lawns.

Plant Rain Gardens

Rain gardens are designed to collect runoff from roofs, driveways or yards and allow it to soak into the ground. 

They are typically planted in shallow, low-lying areas and use deep-rooted plants to slow water flow and filter pollutants. When properly designed, rain gardens drain within 48 hours. Compost and sand amendments, as well as appropriate plant selection, help improve infiltration in clay soils. Downspouts can often be redirected to rain gardens to mitigate pooling water elsewhere in the yard.

Install Drain Tile or French Drains

Drain tile pipes and French drains are commonly used to move water away from persistently wet areas. Drain tile typically consists of perforated underground pipe, while
French drains rely on rock-filled trenches. Both systems require a consistent slope to move water toward an approved outlet, such as the street.

Installation may involve digging near trees or existing landscaping. Residents considering these options are encouraged to consult a professional to evaluate yard slope and potential impacts.

Redirect Downspouts

Redirecting downspout extenders from rain gutters can help reduce water accumulation near foundations and low spots. Extending downspouts toward the street or a rain garden may improve drainage and reduce pooling water.

Using one or a combination of these approaches can help address drainage issues and improve water movement, helping Plymouth yards become healthier and more resilient.

Free Indoor Walking

Stay active with the free indoor walking track at the Plymouth Community Center, 14800 34th Ave. N. Free walking and running is also available in the Fieldhouse dome through Monday, March 30, when the Fieldhouse closes for the season. For hours, visit plymouthcommunitycenter.com.

Yard Waste Site Opens

The Plymouth Yard Waste Site, 14900 23rd Ave. N., is set to open for the season Wednesday, April 1 – weather permitting. The site is open to Plymouth, Wayzata, Long Lake and Medicine Lake residents only and identification is required. In April, the site is open 3-8 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The site is closed Mondays and Tuesdays, Easter (April 5), May 1-2 for Drop-Off Days, Juneteenth, Independence Day (July 4), Veterans Day and Thanksgiving. For more information, visit plymouthmn.gov/yardwaste.

Open Play

The Fieldhouse dome provides an indoor space for activities, including soccer, football and rugby. Open play is typically available weekdays. The last Open Play is set for Friday, March 27. To view pricing and hours, visit plymouthcommunitycenter.com/fieldhouse.

Indoor Playground

The K.U.B.E. is open seven days a week, offering indoor playground fun for children ages 2-12. For pricing and hours, visit plymouthcommunitycenter.com/kube.

Market value notices arrive in March

Market value notices for Plymouth properties are set to arrive in mailboxes in March. The notices list the assessed value of the property and its classification for taxes payable in 2027. Property values affect how much tax residents pay each year. Residents with questions or concerns should call the Hennepin County assessor at the contact information listed on the valuation notice.

Like other municipalities, the City of Plymouth is set to complete annual water main flushing this spring. 

Annual water main flushing helps maintain high-quality water and removes natural mineral and sediment buildup that accumulates at the bottom of the water main. Sediment buildup is caused by internal corrosion of the water mains over many years. 

The city will flush water mains based on the schedule below:

• April 13-17: Industrial and residential areas on both sides of I-494, south of Highway 55.
• April 20 to May 1: Residential areas west of I-494 and south of the Canadian Pacific Railroad tracks. Residential area adjacent to Sunset Trail between Cheshire Lane and County Road 73.
• May 4-8: Commercial and residential areas surrounding the southern and eastern boundaries of Medicine Lake. Commercial and residential areas on both sides of I-494, generally between Schmidt Lake Road and Highway 55. 
• May 11-15: Residential and commercial areas north of 36th Avenue and east of I-494. 
• May 18-22: Residential area in the northwest corner, west of I-494. Residential area on northern and western boundaries of Medicine Lake.

Due to construction, portions of some locations listed may not be flushed during routine operations. To view impacted areas, view the map at plymouthmn.gov/watermainflushing or call the Plymouth Maintenance Facility at 763-509-5950. 

Residents are asked to keep garbage, recycling and organics containers out of the road during flushing. 

Water may be discolored throughout this time, but it is more likely while an immediate surrounding area is flushed. Residents who notice discolored water should let their outdoor water faucet run until the water is clear. Residents may want to avoid doing laundry when flushing is occurring nearby. 

View frequently asked questions and more information at plymouthmn.gov/watermainflushing.

An annual event that offers opportunities for Plymouth residents to get rid of unwanted items, Drop-Off Days is set for Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2 at the Plymouth Maintenance Facility, 14900 23rd Ave. N. Each day offers collection of different items, so residents are encouraged to note which date best fits their needs.

This year’s schedule is as follows: 

• 3-6 p.m. Friday, May 1 – Only items that are free to dispose/recycle will be collected. Free items include bicycles and bicycle parts, textiles and home goods, paper to shred, used oil, unused winter deicing salt, light bulbs and household batteries. 
• 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 2 – Pay items and free items alike will be collected. For participants with pay items, cost is per-vehicle, per-trip. Pay items include tires, small engines (lawn mowers, snow blowers, etc.), scrap metal, mattresses and box springs, vehicle batteries, electronics, appliances (non-commercial), bulky items, remodeling material, and construction debris. 

Discounted pricing will be offered to those who prepay online (a receipt of sale must be presented at the event). To view pricing and a full list of accepted items for each day, visit plymouthmn.gov/dropoff in March. The event is only available to Plymouth residents – identification is required.

To access the site, vehicles should turn onto Fernbrook Lane from Highway 55 and follow traffic signage to be routed to the site. Vehicles will not be able to turn onto Fernbrook Lane from County Road 6. To view a traffic flow map for the event, visit plymouthmn.gov/dropoff. 

For safety reasons, residents are asked to remain in their vehicles while at the site.

By Mayor Jeff Wosje

One thing Plymouth does exceptionally well is plan for the future. We are set to embark on a new chapter of planning this year with the upcoming development of the 2050 Comprehensive Plan, a robust document that serves as a long-range roadmap, guiding decisions about how our community grows, reinvests and evolves over time.

State law requires metropolitan cities to update their comprehensive plans every 10 years to ensure regional consistency regarding land use, housing, transportation and infrastructure, and submit them to the Metropolitan Council for review. The Plymouth City Council adopted the current plan in July 2019. While the required updates are important, the true value of this process is on the local level. It gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect, and consider how the city should progress in the decades ahead.

Plymouth is largely built out, and greenfield development has slowed. Today, much of our focus is on redevelopment and reinvestment in areas that are already part of our community. Plymouth’s population is projected to increase to about 91,700 by 2050, adding more than 5,000 households to the city. That means having thoughtful conversations about how housing, transportation, businesses and public spaces will evolve as needs change. Regional growth forecasts and housing expectations are established by the Met Council, and we must plan to meet those requirements. However, it’s vital that local input determines where and how those changes unfold in Plymouth.

The 2050 Comprehensive Plan will be an 18-month process led by city staff, the Planning Commission, City Council and a consulting team. Most importantly, it will be shaped by community input. Stay tuned for opportunities to share what you value, and your ideas for strengthening neighborhoods, parks and economic vitality – the city will publicize opportunities for input as the process unfolds. By planning thoughtfully today, we can ensure Plymouth remains a welcoming, connected and thriving community for generations to come.