City faces budget crisis over park improvement project

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the status and challenges of a significant grant project aimed at improving Fisher Park and Walnut Street Skate Park. Originally awarded in January 2021, the project was set to enhance recreational facilities, including the installation of athletic fields, restrooms, and ADA access. The total grant amount was initially $642,000, which was later increased to $802,786 due to post-pandemic cost adjustments.

The project has faced delays, primarily due to a lengthy rewrite of the grant manual by the funding agency, which postponed the start of construction until summer 2022. Design work, awarded to Kimley Horn, was completed in March 2024, but the project hit another snag when bids for construction came in significantly over budget—approximately $940,000 more than anticipated.

City officials presented several options to move forward, including rebidding the project, amending the scope of the grant to focus solely on Fisher Park, or proceeding with the project as planned while covering the budget shortfall with city funds. They also noted that the original design for restroom facilities had to be revised to meet historic zoning requirements, contributing to the increased costs.

The urgency of the situation was emphasized, as the grant must be completed by August 29, 2025, allowing time for inspections and approvals. The meeting underscored the growing demand for recreational spaces in the city, highlighting the need for timely decisions to enhance community facilities.