Evansville parks board approves designs, bids and markings for multiple park improvement projects

The Board of Parks Commissioners on March 19 approved several capital and maintenance steps aimed at addressing deferred maintenance and safety in Evansville parks, including design contracts for golf course irrigation, procurement of site work for a playground replacement, and bike‑lane markings along the Riverfront Esplanade.

The board approved two design agreements with Tony Altman (one each for Helfrich and Fendrick golf courses) to replace and redesign course irrigation. Parks staff said the work is funded by bond proceeds previously approved by the board and will follow a phased approach: design first, then construction procurement and construction management. Staff estimated bulk construction would occur between August and October; the design agreements do not themselves include construction work.

Separately, the board approved a contract with 3 I Design to prepare bid packets and seek quotes for site work at the new Fulton Park playground. Staff said playground equipment has already been purchased and an installation date is set for May 17; the board authorized staff to solicit bids so site work can be completed prior to installation. Parks staff noted the new playground location shifts equipment to a more illuminated northeast corner of the park near a basketball court to increase safety.

The board also granted permission to add approximately a dozen bike‑lane markers on the downtown Riverfront Esplanade to help separate bicycle and pedestrian traffic. Paul Bausman, deputy director, said funding for the 12 markers exists in the parks department greenway budget and that the Greenway Advisory Board recommended the change after noting increased bike and e‑bike traffic.

Board members approved each item by voice vote following motions and seconds. Staff said they will return with construction bids or further procurement items when appropriate.