City plans new dog park and upgrades to skate park and baseball fields

The Columbia City Park Board meeting held on May 3, 2025, focused on several key developments regarding local parks, including updates on the skate park, dugouts, and the proposed dog park.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the skate park project. Board members discussed the timeline for final grading and sidewalk installation, emphasizing the importance of weather conditions in meeting deadlines. There was a consensus to delay the grand opening until later in the summer to allow for grass growth and to avoid muddy conditions. The board also noted that nearby communities, such as Warsaw, are reassessing their own skate park plans in light of Columbia's progress.

In addition to the skate park, the completion of new dugouts for baseball fields was celebrated. The Amish crew recently finished the installation, and preparations were underway for the fields to be ready for play. Plans were discussed to upgrade existing dugouts on fields five and six, utilizing cinder blocks to prevent wood rot caused by moisture.

The proposed dog park was another major topic of discussion. Plans presented by JPR included separate areas for large and small dogs, complete with a chain-link fence, seating, and play amenities. The board highlighted the potential for repurposing existing ramps from the skate park for use in the dog park, creating natural features for the dogs to explore. Concerns about flooding in certain areas of the park were addressed, with suggestions for leveling dirt mounds to improve drainage.

The meeting concluded with discussions about parking solutions for the dog park and nearby facilities. The board considered converting existing spaces into a parking lot to accommodate visitors, ensuring accessibility to the playground and restrooms.

Overall, the meeting underscored the park board's commitment to enhancing community recreational spaces while addressing practical concerns such as weather, maintenance, and safety. The next steps involve finalizing plans for the dog park and ensuring that all projects align with community needs and expectations.