During a recent government meeting, community members expressed concerns regarding the accessibility and communication surrounding local parks and recreational facilities as winter approaches. The EPIC team confirmed that playgrounds, picnic areas, and family restrooms on the park's north end will remain open year-round, with walk-in gates remaining unlocked throughout the winter season. However, questions arose about parking access, as residents reported inconsistent gate operations, leading to confusion about whether parking lots would be available on non-tournament days.
Participants voiced frustration over perceived miscommunication regarding the development of the EPIC Sports facility, highlighting a lack of transparency about changes made during the project. Residents noted that initial plans had shifted, particularly regarding access to fields and the intended use of the park. Many expressed a desire for better communication from city officials, suggesting that a dedicated website for project updates could help keep the community informed about ongoing changes and developments.
Concerns were also raised about the design of playgrounds and recreational spaces, with parents advocating for more inclusive play areas that cater to children of all ages. Suggestions included creating open spaces for free play and ensuring that facilities are accessible for families learning to ride bikes. The community emphasized the importance of having clear and consistent information about park usage, particularly regarding the availability of fields for public use.
Overall, the meeting underscored the need for improved communication between city officials and residents to foster a collaborative environment as future projects are planned and executed.