Summary
To: Park and Tree Board Member
From: Eric Wahlbeck, Parks & Recreation Director
Subject: Pat Wall Park and Magnolia Park Renovation Project
Summary: Pat Wall Park and Magnolia Park combine to form a centrally-located, 1.64 acre greenspace within the Town of Belleair. However, this space has yet to reach its potential as a widely-used park because it is over-planted and underutilized. The town now has the ability to re-vamp this space in a way that would link both parks together, increase overall aesthetic, and create a community-wide attraction. The renovated space could include general infrastructure updates, a quarter-mile walking loop, benches, water fountains, a pet drinking station, public art, and donor recognition areas.
Previous Action: In 1984, the Town of Belleair passed a Master Landscape Plan for parks which included Pat Wall Park and Magnolia Park. The plan has never been implemented and a new idea has come forward to renovate the park in the near future.
Background/Problem Discussion: As the Rosary Road project wraps up, Town staff and the Belleair Community Foundation (BCF) see an opportunity to also revamp the nearby Pat Wall Park and Magnolia Park projects at a similar time (as done with the recent renovations of Winston Park and Fountain Square Park). The proposal of receiving private funds from the BCF to develop the park is an addition incentive to act, since these funds may not be available at a later date.
Alternatives/Options: A conceptual plan has been provided for Pat Wall Park and Magnolia Park, as Town staff has been working closely with the Copley Design Associates, Inc. and the BCF. The inclusion of public art (with final selection left to the discretion of the Commission) is also proposed to beatify the space and increase park usage.
Financial Implications: Potential private funding from the BCF has been committed for the majority of renovation costs. There is also the potential for new trees to be paid for by the tree fund. Further detail of costs is included in the attached estimated budget.
Discussion: Discuss proposed plan and estimated budget for Pat Wall Park and Magnolia Park construction. Provide feedback to staff moving forward.
Motion: I make the motion to accept the conceptual plan for Pat Wall Park and Magnolia Park.
Attachments:
Proposed Budget
Conceptual Plan