MANKATO — City and county leaders in the Mankato area are hoping to move forward on turning a depleted gravel pit southwest of Mankato into one of the region’s largest parks.

Mankato City Administrator Pat Hentges said Oldcastle Materials Inc., the corporate owners of the Guaranteed Gravel and Sand site, have indicated a willingness to sell the property. The issue will be discussed Monday night with the full City Council to gauge interest in starting negotiations with the landowners.

The newspaper reported last month that officials believe the proximity of the property to existing parks and trails could make it a strong contender for regional park development.