In 2004 Gardner Parks and Recreation completed a study to identify the possibility of expanding and renovating the existing swimming pool located in Cornerstone Park. The revised concept (project map PDF listed below) identifies a number of state of the art features 2nd to none. It includes a new zero depth entry, an active in water play area, lazy river, multiple water slides, floatable walk, climbing net, spray grounds, new tot pool, and new concession area with shelter just to mention a few.
The study proved that renovating and expanding the existing pool would save the taxpayers money in development and by expanding vs. developing a new aquatics facility in another location. This expansion will also keep the swimming pool in the downtown area and centrally located in the community. As a part of the new plan, the City was able to acquire land to the north of the pool in November 2004, which will accommodate the expansion that will allow for close to 1,200 swimmers.
On June 7, 2005 voters approved a 1/2 cent sales tax increase to fund the development of a new community park and the expansion of the Gardner pool. The issue was passed with over a 70% approval rate.
Construction has already begun on the facility and is scheduled to be completed in May 2007.
Gardner Swimming Pool Expansion
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Project map information
Celebration Park Development
Recently the City purchased 83-acres for a new community park and sports complex to be developed located south of 159th Street and west of Waverly Road. The property adjoins the 45-acre school site currently being developed.
As part of the planning, Gardner Parks and Recreation Department developed a concept with the School District. With sites adjoining, it provides great opportunities to share facilities and reduce development costs for taxpayers. Because of the efforts made between the Parks and Recreation Department and the School District, students will be able to utilize park facilities for educational opportunities and park users will be able to overlap on school grounds for recreational needs.
The park would allow for the growth in participant numbers and programs for traditional activities such as baseball, softball, soccer and football. In addition there is large planned passive open space areas with trails, shelters and a small 9-acre lake for everyone to enjoy.
On June 7, 2005 voters approved a 1/2 cent sales tax increase to fund the development of the new community park and the expansion of the Gardner pool. The issue was passed with over a 70% approval rate.
Construction has already begun and is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2007.
Community Park
.pdf
Project map information
Neighborhood Park Development
In effort to continue to follow the adopted Park System Master Plan, Gardner Parks and Recreation Department recently purchased property that will be developed as the next neighborhood park. The development is scheduled for 2007 and will be located south of 167th and west of Waverly Road within the Quail Meadows sub-division that is currently under construction.
Design plans are currently being developed which will include trails, a picnic shelter, playground equipment, landscaping and open space. The park will also have the ability to connect to the future Kill Creek Greenway Trail that is planned to be located adjacent to the park.
Neighborhood Park Development
.pdf
Project map information
Gardner Greenway Crossing Replacements
Two of the culvert crossings located on the Gardner Greenway Trail System are scheduled to be replaced in 2007. It is anticipated that the culverts will be replaced with pedestrian bridges, similar to the two existing, providing additional width for users and to eliminate the catching of debris that travels down the creek.
Celebration Park Development
