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Council approves 30% Coleman Park design; staff to pursue grant‑ready final plans
Summary
The council approved a 30% design for Coleman Park and directed staff to proceed toward a 90% design so the city can pursue grant funding (ECHO and others) to complete restrooms, lighting, shade, a 2–5 playground and skate park improvements.
Orange City Council on Aug. 12 approved a 30% schematic design for Coleman Park and authorized staff to move toward final design and grant applications. The approval clears the way for staff to seek 90%–100% plans required by grant programs such as ECHO.
Ashley Gay, parks and recreation manager, reviewed community feedback from a town hall and said residents prioritized restrooms, lighting, shade, a dedicated water fill station and additional play areas. Ray Lopez, a landscape architect with Kimley Horn, presented the 30% drawings that include two family restrooms with storage, an expanded 2‑to‑5‑year‑old playground, a resurfaced and reconfigured basketball area with seating, extended concrete circulation paths, and skate‑park improvements including lighting and shade structures.
Several constraints were discussed: the site is limited by stormwater permitting and a pre‑application with the water management district showed limitations on impervious coverage; some eastern trees are invasive and may be cleared for a nature trail; security camera installation and restroom safety were also raised. Lopez said additional skate‑park lighting would increase safe evening use, a request backed by skate park users and neighbors.
Skate‑park advocate James Wright, who said he built much of the existing facility, testified in support: "All we need is shade, lights, bathrooms and a water fountain," he told council, adding the park attracts adults and families and is well used. Council members and staff discussed whether expanded evening hours should be allowed; the council previously asked staff to return with an ordinance if evening hours were to be extended, contingent on security cameras and electrical upgrades.
Council member motioned and the council approved moving forward with the 30% design as presented, with staff directed to complete a 90% design and pursue grant opportunities in the next budget cycle. Staff said the 90% and final design will position the city to apply for ECHO and other match grants; the grant programs typically request 90%–100% design and may require a local match, amount to be determined when final costs are known.
Next steps: Kimley Horn and staff will advance the design to the next stage, gather cost estimates and pursue grant funding; staff will bring a finalized plan and grant strategy back to council as part of the next year's budget process.
