Albert Lea City Council on Monday approved plans for a bike shelter in Frank Hall Park that will welcome cyclists to the Blazing Star State Trailhead and encourage other activities in the community.

The shelter is funded by the nonprofit Freeborn County Trail Association, which has existed since 1995. The cost is estimated at around $70,000, and representatives of the association said they have already raised about half of the money needed.

Once all funds are raised and the shelter is built, it will belong to the City of Albert Lea.

Cathy Malakowsky, the association’s secretary, said the shelter will be about 42 by 18 feet and will be built on the grassy area north of the park’s existing restrooms.

It would include large maps of the Blazing Star State Trail and maps of other city amenities. There could also be a place to hang posters for community events, and there would be bike racks and large signs welcoming cyclists to the state trail.

Malakowsky said many people don’t know that Frank Hall Park is actually the trailhead and they hoped this would raise awareness.

The accommodation will be built on a concrete base, there will also be electricity and in the future there will also be charging stations for e-bikes.

Kristen McGivern of the association said the benefits include not only increasing the park’s visibility as a trailhead, but also improving park amenities and creating shaded areas and bike racks.

This would encourage cyclists and walkers to explore Albert Lea and it would support habits of natural transportation in accordance with the Blue Zones philosophy. It would also promote cycling and walking as alternatives to driving.

The women said they believe the work to connect the Blazing Star Trail across Albert Lea Lake will prepare the city for growth for cyclists.

Second District Councilman Larry Baker said he thought the project would be a good addition to the area and said people should celebrate the project.

Sixth District Councilman Brian Anderson echoed Baker’s comments, saying he believes the layout could be replicated in other locations in the future, such as Shoff Park.