Pittsboro trustees prioritize playground fence repairs, bleachers and equipment quotes as Geobond funds become available

Pittsboro’s Parks Board used part of its meeting to identify immediate maintenance priorities and to plan capital projects for the coming year, including playground fence replacement, installation of new bleachers and evaluating repair options for a large barn.

Staff said two sections of the wooden playground fence blew down during a recent storm and that rotted posts around the playground present a safety concern. Board members discussed using Geobond funds and soliciting three competitive quotes, including local contractors who previously worked on park fencing and rock placement. One trustee suggested setting a new fence line a foot farther from the playground to allow for a small sidewalk and more protection for play areas.

The board also confirmed it ordered two 21-foot, three-row bleachers arriving next week and discussed siting and delivery logistics. Maintenance staff reported on equipment inventory in the barn, noted an aerator and roller assignment question between soccer and baseball users, and flagged a utility 'gator' vehicle that needed a battery replacement or servicing.

Budget context: members acknowledged that a full playground upgrade would be expensive (estimates discussed in the meeting ranged into the hundreds of thousands for a larger replacement) and said they would prioritize safety repairs and targeted investments that can be funded from Geobond and other park monies. Staff were asked to obtain quotes and return recommendations at the next meeting.