Proposed 2016 Wilmington Parks Bond Referendum
Why a Bond? Parks are high priority to public, according to recently adopted Comprehensive Plan Recent survey data indicates public is supportive of a parks bond Lack of immediate capacity in city construction budget to fund desired park projects Last parks bond was in 2006
Activities to Date Bond calendar created Mayor’s committee formed Reviewed all proposed parks projects, Total: $61 million Proposed list of bond projects, Total: $38 million
Proposed Projects North Waterfront Park Lawns Performance/activity space Gardens Children’s area Water feature Public art Support buildings Change picture
North Waterfront Park Wilmington’s Park Why spend $20 million on a park? To build safe, vibrant, well-used park for all citizens and visitors Building park as recommended will provide direct revenue to City Similar urban park investments in other cities have been extremely successful
Pack Square Park, Asheville, NC 6.5 acres of green space, stage, artwork, fountains and pathways Opened 2010 $20.5 million in public & private investment Change picture
Falls Park & Peace Performing Arts Center, Greenville, SC 35 acres of lawns, gardens, 3 performance venues, splash pad, paths Park opened in 2004; Performance center in ‘91/2012 $26.9 million public investment, $31.9 million private investment Change picture
Proposed Projects Soccer Fields Addresses current field deficit Over 3,000 city youth play soccer, 800+ area lacrosse players Multi-purpose rectangular fields with support facilities Will serve local league play and tournament play
Proposed Projects Gary Shell Cross-City Trail Improvements Bradley Creek Pecan/ Park Kayak/SUP Launch Cross-City trail use data
Proposed Projects Community Center Improvements MLK Center expansion & enhancements Derrick Davis Center expansion at Maides Park
Proposed Projects Wade Park Halyburton Park Building demolition Playground expansion New interpretive signage Halyburton Park Resurface trail/add interior boardwalk trail Visitor center enhancements Maintenance improvements
Proposed Projects Resurface trail Bridge refurbishment Greenfield Lake Improvements, Improvements at Skate Park Resurface trail Bridge refurbishment New fountain, irrigation & landscape lighting at Fragrance Garden Replacement of skate park office, half pipe
Proposed Projects Municipal Golf Course Improvements to entrance & maintenance area Clubhouse enhancements
Proposed Projects Maintenance Improvements Park security Resurface Althea Gibson Tennis Courts Parking lot improvements
Proposed Projects Olsen Park, Phase II Multi-purpose field Tennis/Pickleball courts Trails Additional parking, site improvements Maintenance building
Funded Parks Projects Empie Park Phase II: $1.25 million - Five new lighted tennis courts - Entrance connectivity - Playground replacement Piney Ridge Nature Preserve Phase II: $1.325 million - 39 acres of boardwalk nature trail - Additional park amenities
Funded Parks Projects Inland Greens Phase II $815,000 - Rehabilitation of 9 hole par-3 golf course - Clubhouse restoration - Amenities for passive park Parks Maintenance: $380,000
Timeline Outreach & education, Sept-Oct November 8, Election
2016 Parks Bond Questions?