Parks and Recreation commission maps priorities for skate park, town park, Buckner improvements and splash pad

Miss Ware, speaking for the Parks, Recreation, Tourism Advisory Commission, presented the commission’s prioritized list of capital projects and asked supervisors for input as the county moves into the FY‑26 budget cycle.

The commission’s top priority is restoring the skate park to its previous site next to the aquatic facility, including expanding the concrete pad, upgraded composite ramps and fencing, and additional shade and standalone playground equipment. “It was promised to the people when it was removed,” Miss Ware told the board, arguing restoration is the commission’s highest priority.

Other priorities included improvements to Louisa Town Park (benches, playground equipment and a walking trail), parking and access improvements and a mountain bike track at Bumpus‑Buckner Park to prevent damage from off‑road vehicles, and a splash pad at the aquatic facility site if funding allows. The commission also recommended improved signage and quarterly updates to the board and said it may switch from bimonthly to monthly meetings as projects ramp up.

Supervisors voiced broad support. One supervisor urged stronger gateway and facility signage to help residents and visitors find parks. Several supervisors praised the skate park restoration request and encouraged public involvement and subcommittees to help guide design and volunteer participation.

The commission said total capital funding available in the current list was reflected in the packet (the presenter referenced a CIP figure of $488,578 during the presentation) and that final scopes and costs will change as the county requests updated quotes and refines the list during budget deliberations.

No formal funding decisions were made at the meeting; the item provided the board with the commission’s priorities as a starting point for upcoming budget work.