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Neighbors, commissioners debate restrooms, fencing and surfacing for Sunnyside and Riverview neighborhood parks
Summary
County staff described plans to fence Sunnyside parks and add limited parking and playgrounds; commissioners discussed whether to include restrooms because of concerns about overnight use by unhoused visitors and about playground surfacing and maintenance.
County staff briefed the Parks and Recreation Commission on Sunnyside Park (two small parks bisected by Hospital Road) and a smaller Riverview‑adjacent park, outlining plans to install perimeter fencing, minimal parking and playgrounds.
Public Works Administrator Steve Loop said work will begin as soon as weather permits: crews will mow a perimeter strip and install a 6‑foot wood fence intended to improve safety near the San Antonio River. Loop estimated initial park construction costs for Sunnyside at roughly $800,000–$900,000, and said the fence contract alone could be around $100,000 depending on materials; staff noted a masonry wall would cost more.
Several commissioners raised concerns about installing restrooms at neighborhood parks because restrooms can attract overnight use. Loop said restrooms are being bid as an add‑alternate item and that if bids or commissioner direction favor omitting restrooms, staff can remove them from the first phase. Loop added that restrooms, when provided, would be locked at dusk.
Commissioners also asked about playground surfacing and maintenance. One commissioner asked for a flat, accessible rubber surface rather than loose materials that require sifting — citing past issues with hazardous debris (used needles, bottles) found under playground surfaces at other sites. Loop said he would confirm the planned surfacing type for both Sunnyside and Riverview.
Loop said parking for both parks is intentionally minimal (about four to six stalls and one ADA stall at Sunnyside) to discourage long‑term parking; lighting will be limited to reduce impacts on nearby residents. He said the Sunnyside Estates park area should be enclosed by surrounding neighborhoods while the smaller Riverview park will have minimal security and a country‑style fence.
Ending: Loop said staff will produce final bid documents and confirm playground surfacing details and restroom add‑alternate decisions before construction; restrooms will be locked at dusk if installed.
