Iowa City parks staff report pool and skatepark delays, North Market Square bid to be awarded

Julie, the Parks & Recreation director, updated the commission on a series of operations and capital items: a commissioner vacancy, delays at City Park Pool, uncertainty around the Terrell Mill Skatepark schedule and an imminent contract award for North Market Square Park.

Julie said Virginia Hayes has resigned from the commission; the vacancy was advertised and six applicants have applied. "There are 6 applicants, and the council will choose 1 at their next council meeting," she said, and the appointee will complete the term through December 2027.

On City Park Pool, Julie described active construction but said progress has been slower than hoped and staff do not yet have a confirmed midsummer opening date. "We still hope to open at some point during the summer season, but I don't have a date to share with you yet," Julie told commissioners. She added the pool will need to be filled multiple times for testing during construction — a piping test, a cement/bowl test and a final fill after surfacing — and that staffing remains flexible until an opening date is set.

Julie also reported Terrell Mill Skatepark has been delayed after spring river rises affected the site. She said engineers are evaluating water levels and options and that the project timeline is constrained because the specialist contractor is booked for the year. Commissioner Mary Helen expressed concern about scheduling construction in the spring because the site is in a floodplain and suggested considering fall timing or flood‑resilient construction; Julie said staff are discussing options and will determine the best approach.

On capital procurement, Julie said two bids were received for North Market Square Park renovations and the low bid from All American Concrete is expected to be awarded at next week's council meeting. She noted that previously purchased playground equipment and some partner projects were procured before recent school district budget discussions and should not be affected.

Recreation staff reported a strong farmers market season under the Chauncey‑Swan ramp, a "Pedal Power" bicycle safety event this Sunday and a slate of summer programs including Play Days and Party in the Park beginning in June; staff said some vendors have sold out and vendor seniority guides stall placement.

Commissioners asked practical questions about farmers market crowding, lifeguard staffing and whether short pool openings would justify water and staffing resources; Julie said staff are monitoring attendance and staffing budgets and will provide follow‑up information by email.

Next procedural steps: the council will consider the commission vacancy appointment at its next meeting; All American Concrete is expected to be awarded the North Market Square Park contract at next week's council meeting; staff will meet to decide whether to delay or reschedule Terrell Mill Skatepark construction based on engineering input and contractor availability.