Shawnee County approves multiple Gage Park improvements, including waterfall restoration, Playland fencing and donated lighting

The Shawnee County Board of County Commissioners approved a slate of Parks & Recreation projects and a private sponsorship on March 5, advancing restoration and safety work at Gage Park.

Parks Director Tim Murad recommended awarding RFP 005-26 and executing contract C2026065 with Nature's Image Aquatic Design LLC to reconstruct the rock garden water feature. Murad described the work as a complete reconstruction (excavation, liner installation, multiple pumps, stonework) to add recirculation and help address pond water quality and algae concerns. The project cost is $123,727 and will be funded with Gage Park sales tax funds. The board approved the contract 2 to 0.

The board also approved awarding RFP 004-26 and contract C2026066 to Henderson Fence Incorporated to install an iron fence and stone columns along the east side of Playland to separate the playground from the mini train, at a project cost of $51,413.20 funded from Gage Park sales tax funds. Parks staff said the fencing improves safety given proximity to the train and an adjacent road.

Separately, commissioners approved an advertising sponsorship agreement (C2026067) with CWC Electric & Plumbing. Joel Hogan of CWC said the company would donate and maintain roughly 50 pathway and accent lights to illuminate park pathways, a central pond tree, and other features; in exchange the county will allow banner advertising at some aquatic and sports facilities. Commissioners thanked the donor and approved the agreement 2 to 0.

Each item was presented by Parks staff and approved by the board without public opposition.