Commission backs Pilot Park shade structure from pavilion CIP

Commissioners voted to recommend that city council purchase and install a shade structure at Pilot Park, using the pavilion line in the Capital Improvement Plan.

Staff presented multiple options and recent cost estimates. The current CIP line for pavilions lists $80,000 per structure; staff noted recent installed-quote figures of roughly $94,000 for a 20x28 pavilion, and smaller architectural shade structures in the $55,000 range. Commissioners debated whether the CIP allocation should fund a full rentable pavilion or a smaller shade structure for public use and concluded that Pilot Park should receive a shade structure sized to the park and planned use.

Hank moved the recommendation to council; commissioners discussed design taste and long-term CIP pacing before approving the motion. Staff said they would bring park-specific size and placement options (trail connections, concrete pads, picnic table supply) and consider timing to minimize cost increases.

Why it matters: The decision advances a multi-year CIP project to provide shade and public amenities at parks across the city and will affect future CIP pacing and budgeting.

Next steps: Staff will return with design alternatives and cost estimates tailored to Pilot Park for council consideration and to guide subsequent pavilion projects.