Parks department outlines capital plan, shows progress on Ada Hayden aquatic center

Parks staff presented a draft capital improvement plan and construction updates to the Parks and Recreation Commission on Sept. 18, outlining near‑term needs, funding sources and project schedules. Staff said the department typically receives roughly $900,000 to $1 million per year in dedicated local funding (including local option sales tax) for parks capital needs, with larger projects funded by bonds or grants.

Staff highlighted immediate and midrange projects including parking improvements at North River Valley Park, ADA upgrades across the system, replacement or removal of aging ball‑field light poles at Brookside, and streambank stabilization and playground renovation projects. Staff noted a $300,000 line item for More Memorial Park (a proposed regrant contingent on outside funding), and described an approximate $1.7 million donor fund (Guido Winokur fund) that could be used for work at Ontario Park.

On construction progress, staff showed photographs and said the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center at Ada Hayden is on track for substantial completion Jan. 26, 2026 and an anticipated public opening in March 2026. “They do have some of the rec pool poured,” staff said while describing current work on decking, lap pool and multipurpose spaces. Contractors were reported to be planning paving and underground utilities, with target dates and a June 1, 2026 completion milestone for certain projects.

Staff also updated the commission on other projects: Steve Shaker improvements (spray pad corrections and punch‑list items), concrete paving schedules, and the parks maintenance facility that is mobilized with underground utilities and interior demo underway. Parks staff warned the public the bulk water station will be taken out of service during construction and asked users to avoid construction zones to prevent damage and added costs.

Commissioners asked for continued emphasis on trail connections (notably a long‑standing connection from Lincoln Way toward Hunziker Sports Complex), parking at North River Valley Park, and potential partnerships to expand or convert existing tennis courts for pickleball. Staff said public works is working on an easement and bridge design for the Hunziker connection and that costs may be higher than previously anticipated.

Staff said they will finalize a draft CIP for internal submission by Nov. 17 and present to city council in January, with council adoption expected in February 2026. Commissioners invited staff to schedule a site tour of the aquatic center in late October or early November.