CFC looking at big projects

CRESCO - Cresco Park & Recreation Board Chairman Kris Riley and Park Director Brandon Kerian reported there are several big projects on the Cresco Fitness Center (CFC) and Parks agenda that need to be addressed.

Council members learned at their Feb. 21 meeting utility updates in the CFC facility will cost over $600,000, with the bulk associated with the back gym, the oldest part of the campus.

“It’s going to be a big project,” Riley explained. “We have to do something in 18-24 months. The back of the facility is costing an arm and a leg. We could qualify for a historic grant, or we could start from scratch.”

Kerian is still waiting on a quote on tearing down the old building.

Riley noted the focus is primarily in phase one to the north building of the fitness center. This includes the old school gymnasium, offices and garage. “Due to the age of the building and its utilities, we are hopeful this phase will be addressed in the near future to help save a substantial cost that will be needed to replace the current boilers and other equipment.”

Phase 2 and 3 would be any combination or order of expanding both the pool building and incorporating the surrounding green space into these plans. The group is also looking to expand or update the fitness equipment wing, including the option to create 24-hour access.

 

 

 

“Parking and overall flow of the facility and grounds are key point we want to address within any phase of the plans,” Riley said later.

Right now, with the various projects on the list to accomplish, the board is looking at where the responsible place to start will be.

“We have a great city block here,” Riley said. The Board wants to make sure it will be as good as it can. 

A committee of park board members, city employees, council (Amy Bouska, McConnell), Mayor Dave Brenno and community members was formed.

• In other business from the meeting, Kerian said the tennis courts at Evans Park were in need of repair. “Some surface cracks stretch the width of the court and negatively affect the ball during play. These repairs combined with the lack of interest in tennis from the community, has prompted a new renovation idea for the courts in the form of pickleball.”

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports. It is simple and age-friendly that combines elements from tennis, badminton and ping pong.

Kerian said if the courts were enclosed, it would shorten the time of retrieving the ball.

The Park Department is looking at four regulation-sized, individually-fenced pickleball courts on the west side. “On the east side, we would either have a tennis court, basketball court or a combination of the two.” 

The estimated cost is $98,000, with an additional $10,000 for lighting and openings.

“The local pickleball group has taken it upon themselves to gather local pledges towards this project in efforts to aid the City in getting this project started.” The group raised  $80,000 with more fund-raising to do. 

• Police Chief Tim Ruroden said, “The truck is up and running. We are still waiting on a few pieces of equipment, but it’s being used.” 

The rest of the new equipment was installed by Ruroden, who said it saved the City between $9,000 and $10,000.

• Council person Rich McConnell gave a Chamber update, saying an application was submitted for the Times Plain Dealer to aid in renovating upstairs apartments. 

The Broken Road Grill, the old Southside Grill, is still moving forward with a date to open in the future.

McConnell also gave an update on the fitness center.

• Council person Jan Carman reported the Cresco Public Library received a $15,000 estate donation. She added, “[Library Director] Jordyn Moore will receive her Master’s Degree in March.”

• A public hearing will be held on the proposed budget on March 7.

• The mayor was approved to enter into an agreement for auditing services with Gardiner = Company.

• The mayor was authorized to enter into a lease agreement with Midwest Custom Ag Aviation Inc. at the airport.

• A presentation of the Capital Improvement Plan will be presented at 4:30 p.m., before the March 21 Council meeting.

The next meeting is March 2 at 5:30 p.m. at Cresco City Hall.