LAKE STATION | The newly remodeled park at Grand Boulevard Lake is quickly becoming the place for families who want to walk, fish or just enjoy the day, according to Mayor Keith Soderquist.

It's with those family-based uses in mind that Soderquist is showcasing a number of Earth Day events Thursday at the Grand Boulevard Lake Beautification project.

Events will begin with the 10 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony and continue throughout the day.

"From what I've been hearing from those neighboring the lake, it's already being used by the community. It's located in the center of town and will be our gem," Soderquist said.

Activities planned Thursday will include free trees to the first 300 people; free rides on the lake in the new mini pontoon/paddle boats and free rides in the city's six new electric cars for those unable to use the walkway around the lake.

Free bottled water and fruit snacks will be available, Soderquist said.

Local students will attend, including high school teens who will conduct scientific tests of Grand Boulevard Lake for biology classes.

Those 12 and younger will receive a wood-carved plaque with their name on it, courtesy of Ryan Matijevich, Soderquist said.

Matijevich, a full-time sculpting artist, was commissioned last year to carve tree stumps into works of art around the lake.

The carvings, a new walking path and an educational nature walk are all part of the Grand Boulevard Lake Beautification restoration and enhancement project, Soderquist said. City officials on Monday were installing the first fishing dock at the lake, he said.