Council reviews large parks and recreation CIP items: Memorial Hall overhaul, zoo phase 1 and neighborhood parks

City staff presented multiple Parks & Recreation capital projects for council consideration, ranging from a comprehensive Memorial Hall renovation to targeted upgrades at the zoo, playground replacements and neighborhood park development.

Nut graf: The packet grouped several park‑related capital requests that would be phased across years; Memorial Hall and the zoo drew the most detailed discussion because of scale and potential funding mechanisms such as STAR bonds and philanthropic support.

Memorial Hall. Staff presented two cost scenarios for Memorial Hall renovation: an approximately $4.7 million scope that excludes enclosing the top balcony, and a larger $5.5+ million build that would convert the top balcony into enclosed multipurpose space. The plan would modernize HVAC, restrooms and concessions, replace interiors and convert ramps to stairs while preserving primary assembly function. Staff noted an estimated $4.0 million in potential STAR bond eligibility to offset project costs; final scope will depend on design decisions and funding availability.

Zoo Master Plan Phase 1. Staff and Friends of the Zoo described a phase‑1 package that preserves the existing train loop footprint while rebuilding track support and improving the boarding area, and adding new small‑to‑medium exhibits (Mexican wolves, javelinas/peccaries and a mixed‑species yard). Zoo staff emphasized welfare and low‑infrastructure species selection: “when we are picking animals for our collection, we're picking animals that we can have really great welfare for, that can be outside as much as absolutely possible,” a zoo staffer said. Friends of the Zoo would continue to operate the train and provide volunteers; the train loop rebuild is intended to reduce derailments caused by rotten ties and poor subgrade.

Neighborhood parks, playgrounds and trails. Staff proposed converting the Jim Martinez trail from asphalt to concrete in phases and exploring opportunities to move trail sections off the levee where safe. Playground replacements were proposed at Fairgrounds and other sites; Fairgrounds playground was flagged as a high‑use candidate with estimated replacement cost in the $125k–$150k range. A proposed Grama Harbor neighborhood park design would create a lawn/gathering area, a shelter and playground equipment on land to be leased long‑term from the Salvation Army.

Funding and partnerships. Staff said some projects would seek grant, philanthropic or reserve funding; the zoo plan noted Friends of the Zoo support and potential revenue from train ridership as a non‑entry fee revenue driver. Memorial Hall scope and timing will depend on funding choices including STAR bonds. No formal votes were taken at the study session; staff will refine designs and funding strategies.

Ending: Staff requested council feedback on priorities and whether to advance detailed design and grant applications for major items.