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Salina Parks & Rec reviews 2025 accomplishments and 2026 project priorities
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Summary
Staff highlighted completed and ongoing park improvements (Kenwood playground reopening, BFRA dugouts, Bill Burke Park concrete and turf work), reported staff shortages, and outlined 2026 priorities including a Gerry Ivy splash pad (installation targeted for early February), BFRA shelter installations and additional concrete and ADA work.
At the Jan. 21 meeting, Salina Parks and Recreation staff presented a year‑end summary of accomplishments for 2025 and outlined project priorities for 2026.
Staff said Kenwood Playground’s rubber mulch was installed and the playground reopened in December; Gerry Ivy Park’s south‑end overgrown shrubs were cleared and BFRA dugouts for Fields 1–4 were completed. The department reported progress on restroom epoxy work but noted delays due to a forecast cold snap. Staff also said they are currently down two full‑time positions and are interviewing to refill those roles.
Project priorities for 2026 include installing a splash pad at Gerry Ivy Park (staff said installation work was rescheduled and embeds/plumbing were expected to begin around Feb. 1), continuing concrete improvements at multiple parks, converting portions of the Indian Rock trail from gravel to concrete for greater connectivity, and continuing the ADA transition plan that staff reported is about 98% complete.
At the Berkeley Family Recreational Area, staff said three new shade shelters have arrived and will be installed in phases; phase 4a concrete improvements are approximately 99% complete with seeding planned in spring. Pestinger Family Stadium is playable, staff said, though grandstand seating, a flagpole and PA system are still pending installation this spring.
Staff also noted community programming growth: indoor adult volleyball, adult basketball and youth Futsal participation increased, and the department hosted multiple tournaments. The board asked staff to assemble a draft annual report for February that will capture attendance and accomplishments and be filed with the city clerk.
No formal board action was required on routine project updates; staff said specific budget and scheduling details would be provided in subsequent project reports.
