EDEN PRAIRIE GROUND SERVICE RESERVIOR

The Eden Prairie Ground Service Reservoir is a thoughtfully integrated infrastructure project that blends utility with historical and aesthetic considerations. Situated near the Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail, the reservoir is an inconspicuous yet vital component of the city’s water system, capable of pumping 10 million gallons of water per day to serve the community's needs.

A key feature of this project is its design, which pays homage to the historic Eden Prairie train depot from the late 1800s. The train depot once stood nearby, along what is now the regional trail, and played an important role in the city’s history. Oertel Architects chose to echo this history by designing the pump station to resemble the old depot, creating a visual connection to the past while providing a modern, functional facility. The design includes architectural details that mimic the look and feel of the original structure, offering a unique nod to the area’s heritage.

The reservoir itself consists of a prestressed concrete tank, designed to be mostly buried within the existing hillside. This approach minimizes the structure’s visual impact from the nearby Highway 212, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. By burying the tank and designing the pump station to resemble a historic building, the project avoids creating a large, industrial presence in a scenic area, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the site for visitors and residents alike.

To further enhance the historical theme, a section of train tracks was added near the structure, completing the visual illusion of an old train depot. This feature not only reinforces the historical connection but also adds a distinctive character to the design, making the reservoir an example of how essential infrastructure can coexist harmoniously with a city’s cultural and natural environment.

By incorporating historical references, thoughtful site integration, and careful attention to visual impact, the Eden Prairie Ground Service Reservoir serves as a model of how infrastructure projects can honor the past while addressing modern needs. The project’s blending of form and function reflects Oertel Architects’ commitment to creating designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and operationally efficient.