Parks Committee Meeting 3/10/2026

The Bryant, Arkansas Parks Committee meeting on March 10, 2026, focused on updates and plans related to youth and community programs, park infrastructure projects, and staffing needs. Key procurement and contracting discussions included the upcoming construction of the Mills Alcoa Park connector trail, pending approval from ARDOT and funded partially through an 80/20 grant with an estimated $200,000 project cost. The committee also addressed the absorption of the Barracuda swim team into the Parks Department to maintain community swim programs, noting the financial and operational impacts. Additionally, the committee approved the creation of a new full-time aquatic specialist position to support pool operations and swim team coaching, with an estimated budget impact of $8,000 to $10,000, to be funded through savings and future budget allocations. The meeting also touched on programmatic efforts to enhance youth engagement and safety, including behavioral policies for recreational basketball leagues.