1971
The first park master plan was presented in May of this year to the Parks, Recreation & Natural Resources Committee (PRNRC) by D.H. Gustafson and Associates. The park land, referred to as the 70-Acre Park, was largely undeveloped up to this point and a portion was being leased to local farmers for use. The original master plan included additional ballfields, park buildings, a skating rink, tennis and volleyball courts, badminton and areas for other lawn games. The plan was presented to the village council later that year and the construction of the ballfields and buildings was approved.
1972
Water and sanitary sewer was brought into the park to support the restrooms and some irrigation of the existing ballfields. An access road was constructed through the middle of the park as well as a a parking area. The four existing ballfields were hosting 20 softball teams, 21 baseball teams and 615 youth participants; City staff recognized the need for more ballfields to accommodate the growing associations. Following the adoption of a Park Naming Policy by the PRNRC, 70-Acre Park was renamed Aronson Municipal Park in honor of Leo Aronson. Aronson was a long-time Lakeville resident and business owner (Aronson Implement) who also served as the village Mayor for 20 years.
1975-1977
The construction of seven ballfields along with the parking area and access road was completed. Construction of the park building with attached shelter area commenced with plans and specifications prepared by the Lakeville JC's, who also donated $12,000 for the park building and volunteer labor for the project. The proposed building included restrooms, storage and concessions areas, and covered picnic area.
