Summary
During the meeting, several key points were discussed regarding the Oak Ridge Pool:
Concept Designs and Public Opinion:
Seth Rodgers reported the receipt of three concept designs for the Oak Ridge Pool. All designs were noted as being very expensive.
Among the community, 460 out of 520 respondents favored changes to the pool rather than keeping it the same. Only 50 respondents preferred maintaining the pool as it is.
The top priorities identified by the public included:
A concession stand.
Slides and other amenities.
Better restrooms with improved ADA compliance.
Design Options:
Option A involves keeping the pool the same, which is the most costly alternative due to necessary upgrades to meet ADA standards.
Regardless of the chosen design, the existing parking arrangement will largely remain unchanged. Additional parking will be added at the top, with designated areas for bus and EMT parking.
Next Steps:
The designs will be presented to the city council in a work session scheduled for Tuesday at 6 pm.
The Advisory Board members were encouraged to attend the work session for observation, though they will not participate directly.
A placeholder of over $20 million has been allocated in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for this project. Adjustments are expected over time, with a projected start date after the upcoming summer season.
A public meeting is planned, potentially at a school or in the Scarboro community, to gather further input and provide updates.
General Pool Project Timeline:
The project timeline involves presenting designs, securing funding, and commencing construction after the summer season. The actual groundbreaking will likely see a minor annual cost increase.
These discussions indicate a strong community interest in enhancing the Oak Ridge Pool with new amenities and necessary compliance upgrades, while also highlighting the significant financial considerations and planning involved in the project.
Full Text
Minutes of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board Meeting
January 11, 2024 Regular Meeting
The January 11, 2024 meeting of the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board was convened at 7:00 pm in the Oak Ridge Recreation Center Social Room with Chairman Jake Greear presiding.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
Present: Jake Greear, Doug Bataille, Terri Daugherty, Ann Miller, Dan Robbins, Alissa Jones, Kelly Mccampbell, Chris Melhorn, Brittany Hensley
Absent: Jon Hetrick (Recreation & Parks Director, staff liaison)
Also Present: Seth Rodgers (Recreation & Parks, Special Projects, staff liaison)
3. Approval of January 11th Agenda
No changes to the agenda. Agenda approved.
4. Approval of November 2023 Meeting Minutes
Approved as drafted (unanimous).
5. Officer Reports
Thanks to Jake for organizing awards in December.
6. Committee Reports/Board Work Plan
Oak Ridge Pool: Seth reported on three concept designs, all very expensive. They plan to present these to the city council work session on Tuesday. The most expensive option was keeping it the same, despite most survey respondents preferring changes such as adding a concession stand, slides, and better ADA-compliant restrooms.
CIPs Review: Jon will finalize the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) upon returning, and it will be presented at the next meeting.
North Boundary Greenway: Discussed trail marking with colorful tape, and noted significant nighttime cycling near the quarry.
Greenway System: Discussed Greenway master planning with the new city manager and progress on the Life Development Center acquisition.
Parks & Rec Stewardship, Maintenance, and Trail Development: CVTA has almost completed trail renovation work, which has improved the user experience.
Secondary & Long-Term Objectives: Various upcoming events, including the Easter event, chili cookoffs, and a potential NYE event next year. Discussed complications with the Rails to Trails project, including environmental impact reports.
Advisory Support for Conference Center Design: Construction progress is ongoing but behind schedule, with varying estimates on completion. Landscaping will be done in collaboration with UT students.
Support Melton Lake Bridge Preliminary Design: New City Manager supports two designs from UT students.
Support Continued Development of the Peace Bell Pavilion: Maintenance issues were discussed, including replacing the striker and improving the gravel area.
Explore Opportunities for Continued Development of Disc Golf: Designers are visiting to assess and plan improvements. Hopes for future disc golf tournaments and high school meets.
Support Blueways Initiatives: Next meeting is on Jan 16th. A grant was received for a Blueway brochure.
7. Unfinished Business
No updates on Clark Center Park. Talks are ongoing, but there are still challenges to resolve.
8. New Business
None.
9. Appearance of Citizens (Non-Agenda Items)
None.
10. Announcements
City Manager will speak at a lunch hosted by the League of Women Voters on Tuesday.
Welcome to Brittany Hensley, a new advisory board member, and congratulations to Jake Greear and Ann on starting new terms.
Upcoming CVTA workday on Saturday morning at Haw Ridge.
11. Director’s Report
New signs and posts being installed in Turtle Park and at the pool.
Contract signed for playground construction, with completion expected around June/July.
Explore Oak Ridge will occupy half of the Civic Center, and there will be more collaboration with tourism.
Future Agenda Items
None.
Next Meeting: February 8, 2024
12. Adjournment
Chairman: Jake Greear
