Council approves $52K for Riverside Park dugout covers and splash pad repairs

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners Community and Emergency Services Committee convened on March 26, 2025, to address critical repairs and replacements needed due to hurricane damage at local parks.

The meeting began with a discussion on the replacement of dugout covers at Riverside Park. All 16 dugout covers were reported damaged during the hurricane, prompting a proposal for replacement at a cost of $52,624. The funding for this project will utilize the PCA contract, and it was confirmed that some of the expenses would be covered by insurance. The committee unanimously recommended approval of this proposal.

Following this, the committee turned its attention to the splash pad at Evanstown Center Park, which also suffered extensive damage from the hurricane. The splash pad had been without power for several days, leading to ruined electrical components and ongoing repair challenges. After consultations with multiple contractors, it was determined that the entire splash pad system needed replacement. The new design will relocate components from underground to above ground, addressing modern construction recommendations.

The proposed replacement will increase the splash pad's footprint by approximately 50%, providing a larger and more maintainable space for community use. The current splash pad, installed in 2011, has faced numerous issues over the years, and the committee acknowledged the necessity of this upgrade. Insurance claims are expected to cover a portion of the costs, although the exact amount remains uncertain.

The committee expressed a strong consensus on the need for these improvements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safe and functional recreational facilities for the community. The meeting concluded with plans to move forward with both projects, ensuring that the parks can continue to serve the public effectively.