Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation (CCPR) has issued a $20 million bond to renovate all its playgrounds in the area.
The organization released data of the average daily traffic in 2019. The numbers are based on counters placed in strategic locations throughout each park: Flowing Well Park, 515,072; Lawrence W. Inlow Park, 437,795; West Park, 392,901; Carey Grove Park, 95,632; and River Heritage Park, 26,071.
Renovations are a result of the Clay Township impact program. According to Carmel Clay Parks, one of the primary initiatives of this program is to update and enhance the existing parks by making them more accessible, safer and available year-round.
In spring 2019, Clay Township launched its Impact Program to improve the community with a focus on parks and public safety. The impact on the parks system includes a $20 million investment in enhancing and reimagining CCPR’s existing parks, playgrounds, greenways and facilities.
Klitzing
Callahan
Clay Township Trustee Doug Callahan was quoted on the parks department website, stating, “Working with Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation on this project has been a very exciting process. We know that the funds we’re putting back into the parks through our Impact Program will positively impact the community for years to come.”
“We’re approaching a window of time when we need to make reinvestments in our parks,” said CCPR Director Michael Klitzing. “Through open communication with our elected and city officials, and keeping everyone involved with planning, we’re able to share our vision and how to best use resources to invest in the parks, and ensure they stay at the level our community expects and deserves.”
Six parks will be impacted through the Clay Township Impact Program investment. Updates include added restroom facilities, as well as improved access to the White River, erosion control, playground and splash pad updates.
Flowing Well Park
The projected budget for this park’s upgrades is $1.9 million. Upgrades are set to include bank stabilization, restrooms, a parking lot and trails.
Carey Grove Park
The projected budget for this park’s upgrades is $2 million. Upgrades are set to include a playground, restrooms, a parking lot and trails.
Meadowlark Park
The projected budget for this park’s upgrades is $3.5 million. Upgrades are set to include a playground, restrooms, a shelter, a parking lot, pickleball courts, trails and a fishing pier.
West Park
The projected budget for this park’s upgrades is $4.6 million. Upgrades are set to include a playground a splash pad. While under construction, portions of this park will be closed, and no shelter rentals will be available.
River Heritage Park
The projected budget for this park’s upgrades is $3 million. Upgrades are set to include a playground, trails, restrooms, and a parking lot.
Lawrence W. Inlow Park
The projected budget for this park’s upgrades is $2.5 million. Upgrades are set to include a splash pad and restrooms.