The Park and Downtown Improvement Corporation discussed FY26 park priorities Thursday, focusing on Arley White, Stallings and Breezy Hill parks and requesting more detailed cost estimates and phased options.

At Arley White Park, board members debated whether to install a modular restroom (staff said consultants recommended modular as lowest‑cost) or pay more for a site‑built permanent restroom. Board members pressed for a firm cost comparison and asked staff to solicit scope and cost options from Core Construction and the city architect for 1‑stall and multi‑stall permanent restrooms as well as modular units.

At Stallings Park the board reviewed drainage issues that cause flooding at the existing court; members said resurfacing alone would not be enough and asked staff to include site drainage and court relocation or elevation in cost estimates. For Breezy Hill Park staff proposed using city‑owned land to expand passive open space and explore a splash pad site.

Staff also presented recreation upgrades including modular tile courts (used for pickleball), replacement or new scoreboards for baseball and soccer fields and picnic/amenity work. Board members asked for itemized breakdowns that separate paving, drainage, fencing, lighting and installation to better phase projects.

Why it matters: Board members said improved park amenities address equity of access and neighborhood use; several recalled neighborhood users who must walk blocks to restrooms and supported lower‑cost options if they provide reliable public facilities.

Next steps: Staff will obtain more detailed estimates for modular versus built‑on‑site restrooms, a line‑item accounting for modular tile courts and scoreboard costs, and will bring a budget workbook for FY26 to a July workshop.

Ending: The board agreed to target smaller ticket items (trash receptacles, benches, fencing) for immediate FY26 funding while continuing to develop options for larger ticket items such as permanent restrooms and tile courts.