If volunteers can raise more than $153,000 in donations of cash and in-kind services, a new “spray park” will add to the amenities at Clintonwood Park.
The Independence Township Board approved the “concept” on Tuesday, March 18, with the understanding that trustees must give approval for construction when the money has been raised.
Mike Turk, township parks and recreation director, first brought the proposal to the board in February, but officials desired more specific details from contracted planner Dick Carlisle.
In addition to the spray park proper, those details included projected costs of a changing room and parking lot expansion. The new facility is proposed for a spot behind existing tennis courts at Clintonwood Park.
While professional engineering is needed for the final design, the project is proposed as a “community build,” with hopes skilled trades and technical services will be part of the in-kind donations.
“I think projects like this bring the community together,” Turk said. “The committee is ready to raise all the money.”
Trustee Larry Rosso questioned how water runoff would be handled, especially in light of concerns about mosquitos and the potential spread of the West Nile virus. “I’m concerned about standing water,” he said. “Is there a way to recycle the water into the irrigation system?”
Turk said engineers would design a way for water to run off via perforated pipe and pea gravel, which would help the water return naturally into the ground. No retention pond is planned.
The 3,200-square-foot facility would feature four or five above-ground spray “toys” (such as flowers or sea horses) and two to four below-ground sprays. A separate well is seen as preferable to running a water line from the Clarkston Road main, and a fence is proposed around the facility to keep geese and other animals off the concrete pad.
While Treasurer James Wenger called it “a great idea,” he questioned whether current economic times would affect donations. Because there is no set deadline for construction, Wenger suggested that solicitors get a firm commitment for contributions.
Turk later said the committee is excited about the potential community support, and he believes concerns about the economy should not adversely affect fund-raising efforts. While there is no deadline, he would like to see the facility built in 2004.
“When the economy is bad, [people] tend to be more generous,” Turk said. “In general people are very generous and very giving.”
There will be ongoing costs for supervision and “minimal” maintenance of the spray park, and the projected $8,960 cost could be covered by a user fee.
“I think it’s very important to do that for safety reasons,” Turk said.