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Park board directs staff to explore ADA improvements after debate over Lyons Park path width
Summary
Board members debated two bids for a concrete path at Lyons Park and whether to build a 5-foot or 8-foot walkway (the Lions Club offered to pay ~ $3,000 for the wider option). Rather than approve construction now, the board voted to direct staff to explore other ADA-improvement options with the remaining budget.
The Brainerd City Park Board discussed bids for a concrete path from the newly added parking stalls to the restroom at Lyons Park and voted to direct staff to explore other ways to use the city's ADA improvement funds instead of immediately approving an 8-foot path.
Staff described two bid options — a 5-foot path and an 8-foot path — and said grading in the bid would meet ADA slope requirements. The Lions Club offered to pay roughly $3,000 to cover the additional cost if the board chose the 8-foot option. Staff also noted the city has $25,000 set aside for ADA improvements and that installing the ADA parking stalls cost about $2,500.
Board members raised concerns about vehicle access and long-term utility. One member asked what measures, such as removable bollards, would prevent people from driving on an 8-foot path. Staff suggested bollards that could be removed for emergency access. Several members also questioned whether building the wider path now made sense before the planned playground and pickleball courts are constructed, noting potential rework later.
After discussion, a motion to direct staff to bring alternatives for using the ADA budget this year passed by voice vote. The direction asks staff to assess options that might better use the remaining ADA funds or align the path construction with future park improvements.
The board did not vote to award a construction contract at the meeting; instead, staff will report back with alternatives and cost comparisons for the board to consider at a future meeting.
