No. The vast majority of the total project cost will be paid for with private funds. The City of Bayfield’s East Dock Park Playground Subcommittee is actively pursuing grant funding and private donations to reach the full fundraising goal.
Some room tax funds and a portion of City of Bayfield general fund dollars are planned to be contributed, but the majority of the project relies on grants, partnerships, and community support—not a new tax increase.

The current fundraising goal is $1.5 million, which will allow the City to move forward with full implementation of the East Dock Park Master Plan and begin construction of key park improvements.
This amount aligns with the preferred concept and phased development approach outlined in the East Dock Park Master Plan.

The timeline depends on the pace of fundraising and grant awards.

• Fundraising: Ongoing

• Target groundbreaking: Fall of 2026

• Projected completion: 2027

The project is designed to be implemented in phases, allowing improvements to begin as funding milestones are reached, as detailed in the Master Plan’s phased approach.

The project is led by the City of Bayfield East Dock Park Playground Subcommittee, made up of community volunteers working in collaboration with the City, partners, and professional planners to ensure the park reflects community priorities and long-term sustainability.

East Dock Park is a key waterfront gateway for Bayfield—serving residents, families, visitors, and marina users year-round. This project will create a safer, more accessible, multi-generational park that supports community gathering, outdoor recreation, and economic vitality for decades to come, as envisioned in the East Dock Park Master Plan.

East Dock Park is a waterfront, year-round public space, and costs reflect durable construction, accessibility, safety, and long-term resilience. The budget includes a custom, fully accessible playground; shoreline and stormwater improvements; utilities; paths and gathering spaces; landscaping; and professional design, engineering, and contingency—so the park is built once, built right, and serves Bayfield for generations.

Thank you for asking!

• Direct donations are incredibly helpful—every dollar brings us closer to our end goal.

• Volunteering is another great way to support the effort. The playground subcommittee is made up entirely of volunteers (mostly local moms), and they’re always happy to welcome more help. If you’re interested in getting involved, please email bayfieldplaygrounds@gmail.com they’ll get you plugged in.

• Be a verbal advocate—spread the word around town about how great this park project is, because it truly is great. Parks strengthen communities economically by increasing property values, attracting local businesses, and drawing visitors. They also improve public health, provide safe spaces for children and families, encourage social connection, and create a stronger sense of community pride.