Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission Special Meeting - October 7, 2026

The Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission special meeting on October 7, 2026, discussed two capital and trail proposals. The commission approved adding the Lithia Park Pavilion enhancement project to the Parks Capital Improvement Plan, with Phase 1 in the 2025–27 biennium and Phase 2 deferred to a future period, and recommended that City Council move forward with Phase 1. Phase 1 was estimated at $2.1 million and described as funded by a private donation; Phase 2 was estimated at about $1 million, for a total project estimate of $3.1 million, with its funding still to be determined through future capital funding and/or fundraising. Staff said the city and Parks Foundation were still developing a donation agreement and that construction would not begin until full funding, including contingency, was accounted for. The schedule aims for construction to begin in March while preserving skating seasons; missing that window could delay the project until summer 2028. No contractor or vendor was selected.

The commission also reviewed the Mimsy–Allison Wonderland trail reroute proposal, intended to separate downhill bicycle and pedestrian use and improve safety. Members discussed whether to proceed on city-owned land while awaiting Forest Service approval for the adjoining segment; staff said the proposal would return for action the following week, so no final approval was recorded at this meeting. The commission also provided feedback on the city strategic plan, including a request to address senior services. No other procurement awards or purchasing decisions were identified.