CRA reviews conceptual plans to add sidewalk, lighting and ADA access at Union Soldier Park

CRA staff presented conceptual improvements for Union Soldier Park and said final construction engineering plans and cost estimates will return to the board for approval.

Staff member Jean Coutu said the plan focuses on updated landscaping, a short sidewalk to improve ADA access, and added lighting. “Our plan, our goal is to update the landscaping, add a little sidewalk to it, make the park more ADA accessible, add some lighting,” Coutu said, and noted conceptual plans were on display at the back of the chambers.

Coutu said the plans are still conceptual and that staff will solicit input from the public and the CRA board before finalizing them. “With this input, we will be finalizing the plans,” he said. He told the board that when the item returns he will have construction engineering plans and construction cost estimates available.

An unidentified commissioner asked whether the project is already in this year’s budget; Coutu replied yes. The board did not take formal action on the park item at the meeting; staff characterized the presentation as an update and said the item will come back for formal consideration with engineering documents and cost estimates.

The discussion did not include construction contract awards, a timetable for construction, or a detailed budget breakdown; those items will be presented at a future meeting when staff returns with engineering plans and estimates.