In 2003, the Parks Department continued to carry out its responsibilities to maintain park facilities, provide recreation programs, and carry out special projects. This report summarizes projects of note and funds expended.
I. Capital Improvement Projects
The Creekside Nature Park project has been completed. The park offers a parking lot, a drive to the parking lot, 850’ paved path from the parking lot to the creek, and nature trails along the creek. A RTP Grant in the amount of $62,800 and approximately $80,000 in park funds were utilized to complete the project.
Transportation Enhancement Funds to fund the bridge over Eagle Creek at Turkey Foot Nature Park and a pathway from the bridge site along Turkey Foot Ave. to Mulberry St. have been applied for by Stephen J. Christian & Associates. If the grant is received the federal share at 80% would be $728,000 and the local share at 20% would be $182,000. As of early December 2003, the grants have not yet been awarded.
Construction on Zion Nature Sanctuary has been completed. The park includes an outdoor classroom, a wetland area, and a handicap assessable trial. A LWCF Grant in the amount of $191,000 and $67,000 in park funds financed the project.
The Board adopted a conceptual plan for the American Legion Trail Crossing in May of 2003. Inside and Out Design is preparing construction documents for the project at the cost of $11,310.
The Town purchased 38 acres for use as a New Park. These additional 38 acres will greatly enhance the Department. Ratio Architects was contracted with at the cost of $12,000 to develop a conceptual plan for the New Park. The final conceptual plan will be presented at the December Board meeting.
A trail has been constructed from the Zionsville Rail Trail to Pleasant View Elementary. The cost of the trail was shared with Zionsville Community Schools. The cost to the Department was $13,500. ZCS portion was $11,300.
II. Recreation and Service Programs
48 Garden Plots were rented in 2003. The plots were rented
for $20 each and are located behind the Fire Station. Tilling and water hook
ups are provided.
2003 Supt Report – page 2
Pam Smith offered tennis lessons during the summer at the Department’s tennis courts adjacent to Lions Club Park. Lessons were offered for a fee to all age groups.
The Zionsville Ladies Tennis League utilized the Department’s tennis courts for a seven-week spring session and a seven-week fall session.
Christmas trees were collected at Starkey Park and chipped into mulch. The mulch was given to local residents.
With the cooperation of the Department, the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce Free Concert Series was held at Lincoln Park.
The Zionsville 10 Miler Race had 49 entrants and raised $900 for the Department.
The Zionsville High and Middle Schools continue to utilize Starkey and Nancy Burton Memorial Parks for cross-country meets and practice.
The Zionsville Lacrosse Club and Zionsville Community Schools utilized Jennings Field. Plans are in place for the Zionsville Youth Football League to utilize the park in 2004.
The Zion Nature center continues to become more popular. Many thanks to the Friends of Zion Nature Center for making the center a success.
III. Other Noteworthy Activities
The Department continues to distribute winter/spring and summer/fall newsletters.
IV. Donations
The Department would like to thank the following for 2003 donations.
• Friends of Willard Corcoran - $25 for Starkey Park
V. Fees Collected
Lincoln Park Gazebo Rental - $550
Garden Plot Rental - $960
VI. Parks and Recreation Department Expected 2003 Expenditures
Personal Services $124,000
Supplies 19,300
2003 Supt Report – page 3
Contract Services
and Charges 67,600
Total Operating Expenditures - $210,900
Total Capital Outlays - $204,000
Expected 2003 expenditures include encumbrances of $115,720 from the 2002 budget.
VII. Parks and Recreation Department Non Reverting, Donation, and Operating Funds
Year End Non Reverting Total - $277,925
Year End Donation Fund Total - $17,206
Year End Operating Fund Total - $5,810
Respectfully submitted: _________________________________
Albert F. Smith, Superintendent