Board hears trail, park restroom and field lighting updates; executive session planned for parkland acquisition

Board members received a series of capital project updates at the April 3 Recreation and Parks Board meeting, including progress on trail segments, park restroom construction and field lighting, and were advised an executive session would follow to discuss a possible land acquisition for a central county park.

Trail work and developer contributions Staff reported completion of a short section of the 3 Notch Trail installed by Wildwood Residential as part of a condominium project. Department staff said they had submitted plans for county-built sections (from Walmart to Peg Road and the Laurel Grove to Route 5 segment) and hoped to advertise the county contract for bids in the coming weeks. Staff also said some developers had paid fees in lieu of constructing trail segments; those fees will fund future trail sections tied to roadway improvements.

7th District Park restroom and paving The board was told a new restroom building opened at 7th District Park, replacing portable toilets for users of the baseball and softball fields. Staff said paving for the park’s road and parking areas is scheduled to proceed, with completion expected later this month.

Chancellors Run field lighting At Chancellors Run, staff reported most light poles for two multi‑use fields were in place. During installation one pole fell and broke a fixture; replacement fixtures were ordered and staff expect SMECO (the local electric cooperative) to run service so the lights will be operational later in the month.

Executive session: Central County Parkland Staff told the board they would go into executive session to discuss more detailed information about a potential Central County parkland acquisition; no land details were discussed in open session. The executive session was scheduled immediately after the public meeting portion.