Flyer staff photo
Kids and families visiting Walker Park will have a new way to play and cool off by next summer.
Members of the city’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board in October approved a budget proposal that includes $250,000 for a splash pad at the south Fayetteville park.
The money comes from the park development fund, which is fueled by the parks department’s share of the city’s hotel, motel and restaurant (HMR) tax. The city collects a 2 percent tax on hotel/motel stays and prepared food sales. Half of the money goes to pay for parks maintenance, operations and capital improvements. The other 1 percent goes to the Fayetteville Advertising & Promotion Commission.
Parks officials are asking for suggestions from residents on the best location for the splash pad, as well as other longterm plans for the park.
A public meeting to gather input on developing a comprehensive master plan for Walker Park is planned for 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 9 at the city’s Senior Activity and Wellness Center, 945 S. College Ave.
Those who are unable to attend the meeting can submit ideas and other comments by telephone, email or letter by Thursday, March 23 using the following:
- Telephone: 479-444-3471
- Email: [email protected]
- Mail: Fayetteville Parks and Recreation, 113 West Mountain, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Alison Jumper, the city’s park planning superintendent, said once the master plan is created and a location for the splash pad is in place, the city will issue an RFP for construction. If a contract is in place by the end of the year, the splash pad should be completed and ready by summer 2018.
