Prior Lake is a City which emphasizes its historical roots as a rural, recreation oriented community with strong neighborhoods, a thriving Downtown and the feel of a small town located within the heart of a vibrant suburban setting. The Senior/Community Center, City Hall and Police Station provide the gateway to Downtown and Lakefront Park amenities. The Downtown area draws its strength from its uniqueness, size and accessibility to the lake and parks. In addition to meeting the service needs of the community, Downtown Prior Lake offers something for everyone and is a destination place to spend the day socializing, shopping and dining.
Recognized as a leader with its three-fold recreation system, Prior Lake attracts visitors from across the upper Midwest. The first focus consists of the City’s lakes and numerous natural areas dedicated to public use and preservation. The second focus includes the many Community parks, play fields, neighborhood parks, and trails programmed for citizens of all ages and interests. Through the City’s integrated trail system, residents and visitors can access every City park, residential neighborhood, school and many business districts. Third, Prior Lake is recognized for the leisure opportunities showcased by many recreational venues. Public and privately-owned golf clubs are prevalent throughout the area along with the County regional park system.
Prior Lake is proud to be the home of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. The City has a reputation for its positive working partnerships with the SMSC, school districts, other cities, townships, County, business community and numerous community organizations – seeking out cooperative ventures to benefit all concerned.
Prior Lake is a people place for a lifetime. Reflecting the region’s diverse population, residential neighborhoods are designed to offer a variety of homes, meeting housing needs for all ages and lifestyles. Developments preserve the environment, provide for open spaces and offer ready access to the transit and transportation systems that keep residents within easy reach of the cultural and entertainment opportunities located throughout the Twin Cities area.
Known for high-quality educational programs and intergenerational learning opportunities, and guided by their own Strategic Plans, the school districts serving Prior Lake prepare our community learners to meet the challenges of the present and the future. Our school systems provide opportunities that constantly challenge learners of all ages to discover and enhance their individual skills and talents.
Prior Lake enjoys a balanced and well-planned mix of retail, entertainment, social, office, light industrial, high-tech, light manufacturing, and service business opportunities. Prior Lake enhances the quality of life for its residents by providing diverse employment opportunities close to home.
Prior Lake government maintains a strong financial position providing quality services to its residents while maximizing the value of the tax dollar. Ethical government is emphasized and citizen input is encouraged through interactive communications on all levels to identify problems and develop mutually acceptable solutions. Program effectiveness and services are monitored to assure cost-effectiveness with the customer in mind. Priority is placed on aesthetics and the maintenance and replacement of infrastructure.
Prior Lake maintains its unique community identity through the recognition and celebration of our small town values of family, education, courage, pride, honesty and human worth. Volunteerism, civic duty and community pride continue to enrich the City and its residents.
