For those filled with memories of Kiddie Land and wishing they could bring their kids or grandkids now, well, you’ll soon have that chance.
That’s right, Kiddie Land is coming back to life.
The man behind the project is Richard Sherbrooke, who was granted a permit to build an amusement park - think Kiddie Land size, not Valleyfair - in Cormorant.
The Becker County Planning Commission and commissioners approved his request last week, with Commissioner Barry Nelson saying it was an honor to approve a request that would bring Kiddie Land back to the area.
“It’s going to be a huge asset to that community,” he said.
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Sherbrooke, Audubon, did not return messages left to comment on the project as of Friday.
Kiddie Land was a small amusement park located in Detroit Lakes along Washington Avenue. Most any resident or visitor with kids knew of the park, which included rides, treats and plenty of fun memories. (See sidebar.)
The park, which was located across from Washington Ballpark and City Park area, closed quite a few years ago and the white condos were built there several years later.
According to minutes from the planning commission meeting, Sherbrooke was granted a conditional use permit for an amusement park and rezoning land from residential to agriculture. The property is located behind the grocery store in Cormorant, and the plan includes parking, rides and mini golf.
At the county board meeting, it was stated that Sherbrooke plans to take the old Kiddie Land rides, refurbish them and use them at the new park.
“People want it here and it will be a good asset to the area,” the minutes read. “No one spoke against the application.”
Those in attendance, and in a letter of support from Benny and Susie Braseth, stated that the amusement park would be a great addition to the Cormorant area, that there are lots of young children in the area and there needs to be more activities for them within a closer distance.
Cormorant Township is also in support of the project.
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“The area will provide an additional recreation area for children and families to enjoy, and they are in support of projects that bring families together,” the minutes read.
Planning commission member Jeff Moritz said the plan fits well in the area and would be a nice asset to the township and county.
Follow Pippi Mayfield on Twitter at @PippiMayfield .
