Payson Parks Committee reviews $10M upgrades including new aquatics facility at Rumsey Park

The Payson Town Council held a work study meeting on February 4, 2025, focusing on the development of recreational facilities, particularly the potential expansion of parks and the construction of an aquatic center. Key discussions centered around the addition of a lighted baseball field, improvements to existing multi-use fields, and the need for updated amenities at local parks.

One significant proposal included the construction of a new restroom and concession stand near the existing sports fields, addressing the current inadequacies of facilities that have been described as outdated. The council discussed plans to increase parking capacity from 270 to 754 spaces to better accommodate visitors during events.

The conversation also shifted to the future of the aquatic facility at Rumsey Park. Council members debated the merits of renovating the existing Taylor Pool versus constructing a new aquatic center. Concerns were raised about the impact of flooding and drainage issues on the proposed site, with suggestions to conduct a facility condition assessment to evaluate renovation options.

Some council members expressed frustration over the repeated assessments and studies, arguing that the community already has a clear vision for the aquatic center, which should include an eight-lane competitive pool and therapeutic facilities. Others emphasized the importance of thorough analysis to ensure that any development aligns with community needs and addresses potential challenges, such as parking and drainage.

The council is considering two primary options: focusing on the Rumsey Park site or moving the aquatic center to the Malibu site, which may offer fewer complications. The discussion highlighted the need for a consensus on the direction of the project, with an emphasis on ensuring that any new facilities meet the recreational needs of the community.

As the meeting concluded, the council acknowledged the importance of defining programs that would utilize the new facilities effectively, ensuring that they serve the diverse needs of the community, particularly for seniors and families. The next steps will involve further discussions and evaluations to determine the best path forward for Payson's recreational development.