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HomeMy Public PortalAbout2021-01-19 minutesPark Resources & Planning Committee Meeting January 19, 2021 Virtual Meeting via WebEx - Noon Committee members virtually present: Chris Yarnell, Marty Miller, Eugene Bushmann - Commissioners present: Bill Plank and Stu Murphy Visitor - Councilman Ron Fitzwater Park staff present: JJ Gates and Rena Barron Call to Order Commissioner Bill Plank called the meeting to order at 12:01 p.m. He thanked those in virtual attendance for their participation in the meeting. Introductions of Attendees McClung Park and Ellis-Porter Riverside Park Construction and Timeline Assistant Director, Gates reported on the construction development of McClung Park. The project is mostly finished and has a Spring 2021 timeline. The parking lot was deemed to be in worse shape than originally thought and is in the process of being redesigned to convert parking spots to green space. Outdoor furniture will be added, and interior furniture will be updated. Pavilion rental has decreased due to COVID-19. Discussion was had on the cost effectiveness and water quality or run-off maintenance for a grass paver system. Marty Miller suggested contacting Missouri State Parks facilities about the grass paver system used in the state park system. Riverside Park amphitheater completion is scheduled for April 2021. Verslues Construction is working hard to complete the project. Asphalt is needed, along with the completion of the band shell and restrooms in the area. The seating is completed: 2,500 approximate capacity with 503 being permanently installed. Security lightening is being installed at the top area of the park and at the ballfields. The contractor is waiting on AmerenUE to assist with completing this task. VenueWorks has been contracted for booking local artists and other events, along with management of the amphitheater. Washington Park Improvements Assistant Director, Gates outlined the improvements at Washington Park starting with the speed table that was installed on Kansas St , with addition of two crosswalks, parking lot lighting, and lighting along the greenway. An infrared crosswalk sign was installed for pedestrian crossing between the parking lot and the ice arena facility. The project is on timeline schedule, patrons and employees are excited about the improvements. Lighting is on hold f or Vivion field until the parking lot can get an asphalt overlay. 2 Park Operations and Improvements Update Discussion was held reference future opportunities for indoor sport activities should a new ice-skating complex come to fruition. Director Gates referred the inquiry to Assistant Director, Grefrath and Parks Director, Todd Spalding. The Park Commission recently took action to accept a buyout option of the Washington Park cell tower long time lease agreement. The lump sum payout will be earmarked for improvements to Washington Park. Commissioner Plank inquired whether park maintenance has increased due to increased park usage. Gates reported that no additional maintenance other than the usual has been required. What is being seen / heard in the community Trail condition signage has been ordered for Binder Park and Frog Hollow which will help caretakers and users monitor the trails and keep the trails in good condition. Committee Member, Celeste Coon has been instrumental by creating a Facebook group for volunteers to participate in the needs of the trails. Marty Miller advised the trails at Binder are in fantastic condition. Praise has been heard about 63 Diamonds and Community Park. Other Business The Jefferson City Botanical Garden masterplan has been finalized. The conifer garden will be relocated to this area Spring 2021. New members for the Parks Resource and Planning Committee are welcomed. Those interested in the park system to voice thoughts and ideas, and to participate in the meetings, should contact JJ Gates. Inquiries about the Sugarbaker property was referred to Parks Director, Todd Spalding. Next Meeting Tuesday, April 20, 2021, Noon; location: TBD Adjournment Commissioner Murphy called the meeting adjourned at 12:45 PM.