Tim Caber, project manager and senior civil engineer for the City of Oroville, told the Park Commission that construction at Hewitt Park is progressing and remains "on time and within budget" with an expected contract completion in early March. He urged commissioners to visit the site to view the new pavilion, athletic field, playground and other features.

Caber said the project will include four field lights, an ADA-accessible walkway, multi-story playground elements and a splash pad with multiple themed water features. "Water's gonna flow out of those and delight children for many years to come," he said, and described the splash pad controls as "on demand," meaning water runs only when an actuator button is pushed and can be programmed to prevent activation outside posted park hours. He added staff will winterize the water system and shut off electricity during the off season and will test LED lighting tied to the water features prior to a public viewing.

Why it matters: Hewitt Park will provide expanded recreation options — courts, fields, playgrounds and a splash pad — and will be staffed and secured through a combination of park employees and municipal enforcement to support night events when lighting is in use. Caber said staff are still working out ribbon-cutting logistics and daily operational responsibilities.

Supporting details: Staff described perimeter security — a 7-foot fence around the main park with dog areas behind a lower fence — and said dog parks may remain accessible outside of staffed gate hours. The commission also learned that three large interpretive infographic signs have been printed for train features and a final sign will be placed at the park entrance.

Bedrock Park: staff presented the phase 1 scope and cost estimate for Bedrock Park, consisting of construction documents and design development to 50 percent. Caber gave a phase 1 construction and design estimate of about $1,100,000 and said the city council previously approved moving the project forward to task 4 (detailed design). Commissioners asked staff to return with refined cost breakdowns as the design development phase completes.

Next steps: Staff will continue lighting and water-feature testing, finalize ribbon-cutting plans, post park hours and finish design work for Bedrock Park phase 1. Commissioners requested follow-up on final cost allocations and a timeline for when the signage and public viewing will be scheduled.