Fairhope, Alabama
EXTENSIVE REPAIRS NEEDED
According to citizens and city staff, much of the wooden 15 year old structure is worn and splintered due to heavy use/weathering and it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a more suitable/durable metal and plastic construction. Vandalism has been a problem there as well.
Also, the use of the more modern materials would require less maintenance by the Public Works Dept.
CITIZEN SPEAKS FOR DISABLED ACCESS
Katie Evans, a former special education teacher, spoke on behalf of a group of citizens (representing the non profit Play By the Bay, Inc) with handicapped children seeking better access to the park. If repairs are needed to 75% or more of the structure, handicapped accessibility will be mandatory to comply with new requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to city staff.
Evans: "We love our downtown park, but we have become increasingly concerned about the accessibility and condition of the facility ... the park in its current condition falls short ... ."
Evans said she had been meeting with the Mayor and staff about the park's future for over a year now; and her organization may be able to raise funds for the project.
SPLASH PAD POSSIBLE
Update: Councilmember Quinn informed the Times later that a splash pad has been discussed for the beach-area or behind the museum, not community park, but the park may be a good place too.
According to citizens and city staff, much of the wooden 15 year old structure is worn and splintered due to heavy use/weathering and it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a more suitable/durable metal and plastic construction. Vandalism has been a problem there as well.
Also, the use of the more modern materials would require less maintenance by the Public Works Dept.
CITIZEN SPEAKS FOR DISABLED ACCESS
Katie Evans, a former special education teacher, spoke on behalf of a group of citizens (representing the non profit Play By the Bay, Inc) with handicapped children seeking better access to the park. If repairs are needed to 75% or more of the structure, handicapped accessibility will be mandatory to comply with new requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to city staff.
Evans: "We love our downtown park, but we have become increasingly concerned about the accessibility and condition of the facility ... the park in its current condition falls short ... ."
Evans said she had been meeting with the Mayor and staff about the park's future for over a year now; and her organization may be able to raise funds for the project.
SPLASH PAD POSSIBLE
Update: Councilmember Quinn informed the Times later that a splash pad has been discussed for the beach-area or behind the museum, not community park, but the park may be a good place too.
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