City opens public survey on Canyon Center Park design; consultant exploring circulation and accessibility

Cottonwood Heights staff updated the Planning Commission Dec. 4 on a public survey to inform design of Canyon Center Park, a roughly 1.1-acre public park planned for property near Canyon Center Parkway and the Marriott hotel.

The survey had been live for two days and staff reported about 150 responses and active discussion on social media. Staff said consultant concepts include circulation from Canyon Center Parkway and multiple potential entrances, and the project is being coordinated with a nearby condominium development and the development agreement process.

Commissioners and staff discussed park funding, maintenance and construction timing. Staff said the city does not currently have construction funding but is pursuing partnerships with the master developer to stretch the design and construction budget, as the private developer can sometimes build elements at lower cost than city construction. Staff pointed to Dover Hill Park as a recent comparable project where private construction reduced city costs.

Survey respondents prioritized shade and seating; staff said an all-abilities playground is one idea being explored and that survey data could inform whether to include such features at this site or consider retrofitting an existing park instead. Staff emphasized that the park will be deeded to the city after construction and maintained as a public park; maintenance options may include the city contracting with the recreation service area.

Staff encouraged commissioners to take and share the short survey and said the design process will likely come back to the Planning Commission for formal review as the project advances and the development agreement is finalized.