Placerville approves $59,516 contract to stabilize slope above Lions Park pickleball courts

The Placerville City Council on Sept. 23 approved a construction contract with D. Vierkamp General Engineering, Inc. for $59,516 to repair and stabilize the slope above the southeast corner of the Lions Park pickleball courts and authorized a $62,000 appropriation from the Park Development Fund.

Parks staff outlined three main project elements: laying back the steeper slope to a 2:1 gradient, replacing a brow ditch and culvert, and grading the walking path with erosion control and seed. Staff said the work will attempt to preserve existing trees where feasible and that excavated soils will be reused near the walking path or spread in adjacent park areas.

The presentation noted the city had previously considered a retaining wall, which had an estimated cost of roughly $140,000, and that the current approach aims for a less costly, practical solution. Staff also said rehabilitating the area will help address persistent localized washouts and improve long-term drainage.

Council approved the contract and appropriation by unanimous roll call. Staff said temporary construction fencing would be removed at project completion and that staff will plan a separate follow-up project to address a more aesthetic, permanent fencing solution and to further evaluate the trail entrance and tree preservation.

No appeals or protests were raised during the public comment period.