Capital projects and greenway staff reported construction milestones and new openings and the department noted proposed budget enhancements in the mayor’s FY26 recommendation.

Joe Stovall, capital projects lead, said construction awards and bidding are advancing: Centennial and Mariposa award processes were expected to be completed in May with construction beginning in June; Fort Negley would go to bid next; Lytle Bend Nature Park is in construction development and may open by July; Mill Ridge Phase 2 and Shelby Park riverbank stabilization work were moving toward bidding and June start dates; Old Hickory Community Center building and site work was reported at about 75% complete.

Cindy Harrison, greenways and open‑space lead, announced a newly opened segment of the Cumberland River Greenway at Peabody Union linking KVB and Pinewood Social with public seating and landscaping, dedicated by a development partner that will maintain the segment for Metro Parks. Harrison also reviewed other greenway projects in design or construction, including the 440 Greenway segments, Whites Creek Greenway at Hartman Park (60% design), Richland Creek Greenway trailhead graphics, and the Harpeth River Greenway at Arise at Bellevue with an associated 25‑acre open space dedication.

In the department’s written report, Director Odom noted the mayor’s proposed FY26 operating budget includes about $6.7 million in enhancements for Metro Parks. The enhancements cited by staff include funding for armed security at selected community centers and facilities, increased ground maintenance and mechanical/materials funding, and higher wages for part‑time and seasonal staff. Staff also highlighted upcoming Plan to Play community meetings in June, remediation work at Red Caboose Park, LED light upgrades at Hadley Tennis Center, and summer programming adaptations while construction is underway at Old Hickory and other centers.

Stovall and Harrison answered board questions about schedules and partnerships; several projects were described as pending permitting or funding and a small number of items were deferred to the acquisition or other committees for additional review.