Pryor Creek pursues $523,100 Department of Commerce grant for an inclusive Bobby Buck playground and new park features

City staff presented a two‑phase Department of Commerce grant proposal for Bobby Buck Park that would allocate $523,100 to create an inclusive, ADA‑oriented playground and supporting amenities.

Phase 1 (design and play structures) will install rubber impact surfacing rated for an eight‑foot fall, accessible swings and spinning elements that accommodate wheelchairs, multiple slides (including an eight‑foot‑wide slide intended for shared use), shade structures and toddler‑designated equipment. The presenter noted vendor pricing and state contract channels will be used; procurement cannot begin until September under grant rules.

Phase 2 would add adult exercise equipment similar to installations at Centennial Park, additional benches, trash containers and restrooms. The presentation said the grant allows for restroom features such as adult changing tables; staff also raised restroom security challenges and discussed magnetic‑lock and timed‑access options and exterior monitoring to reduce vandalism.

Separately, staff described a vendor‑managed holiday‑lighting pilot for the park: the vendor would install and maintain seasonal displays, handle takedown and storage, and offer reduced recurring costs after the first year; sponsorships were proposed to offset costs and create community branding opportunities.

Next steps: staff will finalize design options, obtain multiple quotes, and begin procurement once the grant encumbrance date (September 1) permits purchases. Staff emphasized the goal of creating an inclusive play area and improving winter walkability through the lighting program.