EDC hears options and cost estimates for library projector shade and park improvements
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Summary
Public works staff reported multiple quotes for a library shade/projector structure and discussed park pavilion, walking trail and playground improvements; no project was approved, staff will return with refined proposals and cost comparisons.
Public Works staff presented options and preliminary cost information for a shade structure to support a pop-up projector at the Austin Memorial Library and reported plans for park pavilion and trail improvements at Campbell Park.
Staff said they received a structure quote of $117,000 for a library projector support structure and said Cunningham Recreation provided an alternative estimate of $180,000 for a shade structure; staff also discussed a lower-cost steel structure option that they described during the meeting as coming in under the higher quote. The library's inflating pop-up projector is about 20 feet high, and staff said any permanent structure would need sufficient clearance and ground improvements to avoid standing water.
On parks, staff said they plan pavilion and walking-trail renovations and replacements of playground units starting in August, and they described in-house plans to add storm-drain features and fire-hose tie-ins to support pavilion safety. Staff said they would provide final, itemized proposals comparing (a) steel structure with ground surfacing and drainage and (b) a full pavilion-style structure for board consideration.
Why it matters: The projects intersect with EDC priorities to fund placemaking and quality-of-life improvements and could appear in the EDC's FY26 project list, pending final cost estimates and availability of funds. Board members emphasized safety for children (surface material) and drainage before making a commitment.
Next steps: Staff will return with detailed engineering and cost comparisons for the library and targeted parks projects; no funding commitment was made at the meeting.
