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Lancaster reviews conceptual park plans emphasizing ADA access and reservoir activation
Summary
At its March 10 meeting, the Lancaster City Council heard a conceptual master plan from Devin Gentry (Goodwin Mill) proposing reservoir activation, a loop trail, floating docks, skate amenities and an ADA-accessible Wylie Street Park; council asked staff for cost estimates and phased plans.
Devin Gentry of Goodwin Mill presented conceptual designs for multiple park sites in Lancaster, centering a reservoir concept with a trail loop, floating docks and a small boat launch accessible from Highway 521. He said the plan adds seating, boardwalks, sand volleyball and hard courts, plus skate amenities, restrooms and large shelters to make the sites usable for families and longer visits.
The presentation also included a reworked design for Wylie Street Park that keeps the existing pool, adds ADA-accessible playground equipment, a central restroom structure and reimagined parking. Gentry said the site plan shows roughly 100 paved parking spaces on the main lot and a net total of about 130 spaces across the property, while preserving most green space and adding minor pathways and hardscape.
Council members pressed on use and maintenance. One council member asked whether playground equipment would meet ADA standards; Gentry responded, “It would certainly be accessible for all different people with different abilities,” and said inclusive equipment and shelters were a project priority. Other members raised long-term upkeep concerns, noting past renovations (for example the Gay Street courts) that had not received consistent follow-up maintenance.
Council members also debated whether two skate parks are needed in town and whether one could be converted to serve ADA-accessible playground uses. Gentry said skate parks were a frequent regional request and could be adjusted to neighborhood needs. On lighting and field upgrades, Gentry proposed LED sports lighting with automation and photo cells to prevent spill, saying the technology lowers operating cost and permits precise cutoff controls.
The council did not vote on these concepts. Next steps identified at the meeting: staff and consultants will develop engineering drawings and cost estimates for priority elements (restrooms, ADA equipment and lighting upgrades) and present phased options for council consideration and funding strategy.
