May 14 neighborhood meeting to explore opening Loves Park’s Windsor Lake to public

Online Staff Report

A neighborhood meeting to discuss a proposal to transform Windsor Lake in Loves Park into a Regional Activity Center will begin at 6 p.m., Monday, May 14, at Paddle and Trail, 7212 N. Alpine Road, Loves Park, Ill. The meeting will be in the tent at the rear of building, and will take place rain or shine.

At its May 8 meeting, the Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners heard a proposal to transform Windsor Lake into a Regional Activity Center. Windsor Lake is off North Alpine Road and Windsor Road in Loves Park, and is adjacent to the Windsor Athletic Club. The lake discussed is owned by Ed and Kurt Carlson.

The Carlsons expressed an interest in working with the Rockford Park District to open the lake to the general public, and proposed a concept that would include a short-term lease to the Rockford Park District in preparation for a permanent donation in 2013. During that time, the Rockford Park District would enter into a sub-lease/partnership with Paddle and Trail (owner preferred and located right along the lake property) to offer open water programs and activities.

Under the short-term lease, the Rockford Park District would incur minimal expense toward the project. All operational costs would be the responsibility of Paddle and Trail.

“We are exploring a lot of options for this body of water and are excited about the opportunities and the collaboration that is going on with the Carlson Family, Paddle and Trail, the City of Loves Park, and Illinois Department of Natural Resources,” said Rockford Park District Deputy Director of Operations Jay Sandine.

Windsor Lake facts

• 12 acres of lake property

• Under private family ownership for decades

• Largest of three bodies of water near Windsor and Alpine roads in Loves Park

Water activities and programs at Windsor Lake

The Rockford Park District would partner with Paddle and Trail to offer water programs such as kayaking, canoeing and windsurfing. The lake would also be open to the public for regulated fishing opportunities, leagues and derbies along with rental boat opportunities, hiking, exploration and winter activities. Boating on Windsor Lake would only be available through rental options at Paddle and Trail.

After receiving public feedback, having more board discussion and board approval, required licensing and safety items would be in place.

The Regional Activity Center at Windsor Lake Pilot Program could begin operating as early as July 2012.

Posted May 11, 2012

Print This Article