This map of German Park shows the areas affected by the changes in the Veterans Square plan. The Square will be relocated from the yellow Flagpole area to the red area.

NEW ULM — The New Ulm Park and Recreation authorized three modifications to the plans for Veterans Square in German Park.

The first modification is a change of location. The site designated as “Veterans Square” will be relocated. The area around the German Park flagpole was originally set as Veterans Square, but it was recommended the location be moved to the 3rd North Street tree area (see map).

The reason for the relocation is related to the topography of the site. Consulting group Bolton & Menk’s survey found additional expenses would be incurred removing and replacing existing perimeter sidewalks and installing multiple concrete sidewalk ramps and landing to meet ADA accessibility codes at the flagpole location. The 3rd North Street tree area had no topographical challenges and would incur no additional concrete sidewalk expense.

Park and Recreation Director Tom Schmitz said there are three trees in this location. None would be altered for the project. The first two Vietnam War panels would be located on the south end of Veterans Square.

Schmitz said relocating Veterans Square would also move the remembrance space away from the wedding venue and the amphitheater. Its closer proximity to the playground will encourage children to learn about veteran service. This site also has a greater square footage of the section near the flagpole.

The second and third changes were related to the physical appearance of the two Vietnam War panels. Both panels will be two-sided and will be 72 inches in height. Originally, only one of the panels was to be double-sided and each was 56 inches tall.

The Monument and Cemeteries Commission unanimously approved these changes during their Dec. 20 meeting.

The Vietnam War panels are the first phase of the Veteran Square proposal. The panels were donated by Bruce Lambrecht. There is no cost to New Ulm for the panels. Other panels could be added at a later time.

Schmitz said staff recommends a master plan be developed for Veteran Square to provide an opportunity to honor veterans of all conflicts, all wars and all people who have served this country.

The commission unanimously approved the changes.

The anticipated installation of the Vietnam panels is late summer or fall. A grand dedication ceremony is planned for Oct. 13, 2022.

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Park and Rec. Director Schmitz informed the commission adult users of the Recreation Center can now have 24/7 access to the fitness center.

For a small additional fee, members over 18 can receive an electronic key fob to enter the Recreation Center at any time to exercise, even after hours. The fitness area with the cardio and strength machines will be accessible for these members.