Commission backs in-kind rebuild of Pavilion Park ticket booth; public works to aim for historic look

The Parks and Arts Commission discussed options for a deteriorating ticket booth at Pavilion Park on April 14 and agreed that Public Works should rebuild the existing structure in place while attempting to restore a more historically accurate appearance where practical.

Commissioners and staff noted the booth currently houses electrical equipment and access panels that constrain changes to the footprint. Laura Frank told the commission the historical society provided a photograph of the original booth and asked the city to consider restoring key historic features. Public Works Director Ben Turner said the existing electrical equipment and clearance requirements make it difficult to reduce the footprint or relocate the paneling without substantial cost.

“I think our budget was $5,000,” Turner said in response to questions about feasibility, and he said his facilities crew could repaint, re-side and improve trim and the overhang to better match the original design if the work fits into their workload. He added that reproducing the curved roof shown in older photos would require specialized craftsmanship and more time; crews can more easily add an overhang and improve proportions.

Commissioners discussed two paths: rebuild the booth in place with materials and detailing that better reflect the original, or relocate the electrical equipment and build a smaller, more historically accurate replica elsewhere. Staff noted relocation would increase cost and complicate access to the electrical panels.

The commission directed staff to pause the current in-kind replacement plan while staff confirms whether Public Works can achieve a closer match to the historic appearance within the existing footprint and budget. Staff will follow up with sketches and cost estimates and report back at the next meeting.