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Parks staff report ARPA funding for two playgrounds, update on no‑wake research and CORP adoption
Summary
Staff reported $550,000 of ARPA dollars committed to park projects (Stevens Park and Rainbow Memorial play equipment) with RFPs issued, said they are researching a combined ordinance and no‑wake zone approach with the DNR and city attorney, and noted the comprehensive outdoor recreation plan was adopted by the common council after plan commission approval.
At the Oct. 14 meeting staff briefed the board on several non‑action updates: ARPA funding commitments, a no‑wake/watersports ordinance research effort, and the status of the comprehensive outdoor recreation plan (CORP).
Staff said the city identified about $550,000 in ARPA funds available for park projects after adjustments to the 2024 CIP and that Stevens Park play equipment (2025) and Rainbow Memorial Park play equipment (2026) will be prioritized; the department has an RFP out with purchase orders expected before year‑end so ARPA commitments are met.
On the river safety/no‑wake topic staff reported discussions with the Department of Natural Resources and the city attorney about drafting a local ordinance to prohibit certain watersports; staff intends to present the ordinance and any proposed no‑wake expansion to the council together so the measures are considered simultaneously before spring.
Staff also reported that the CORP was unanimously recommended by the plan commission and adopted by the common council; staff will publish the final plan on the parks page of the city website when the consultant delivers the final document.
Next steps: staff will proceed with RFP/purchase order commitments for ARPA projects, continue ordinance research with legal counsel and the DNR, and post the final adopted CORP online when available.
