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Commissioners OK $2.186 million purchase of park shelter bundles; Reuben Estrella Park bathrooms remain a priority
Summary
The court authorized purchase of shelter bundles for eight county parks for $2,186,397.87, while commissioners and staff said Reuben Estrella Park may prioritize bathrooms over new shelters pending funding.
El Paso County commissioners on July 6 approved purchasing a bundled set of park shelters, picnic tables and waste receptacles for eight parks using a cooperative contract with Exerplay, Inc. The agenda lists the total project cost as $2,186,397.87.
County purchasing agent Karen Davidson told the court the bundled procurement delivered economies of scale and an additional 5% discount. During questions, commissioners raised Reuben Estrella Park, where community members reportedly prefer prioritizing bathrooms. Public-works staff said buying shelters now would not obligate the county to install them at Reuben Estrella if funds are later redirected to construct restrooms; the purchase authorization preserves the option to add shelters within six months if funding allows.
Judge Samaniego moved to approve the purchasing authorization; Commissioner Stout seconded the motion and the court approved the item.
Why it matters: The purchase funds park amenities across multiple sites. Commissioners emphasized that community preferences and restroom needs at Reuben Estrella Park will guide whether shelters at that site are installed immediately or delayed.
Next steps: Purchasing will proceed under the approved cooperative contract; placement decisions for individual parks (including Reuben Estrella) will track project priorities and available funding.
