BLOOMINGTON – The Parks and Recreation Department has unveiled a comprehensive $17 million investment plan to address urgent deferred maintenance across the city’s parks, trails, and sports facilities.
Presented during a special Board of Park Commissioners meeting on Sept. 28, the proposal directly addresses one of the primary targets set in the department’s newly adopted 2026–2030 Master Plan: “taking care of what we have.”
Key Upgrades and Facility Improvements
Parks and Recreation Director Tim Street outlined 15 core projects designed to update aging infrastructure and meet shifting recreational demands.
High-priority locations targeted for major maintenance include Bryan Park Pool and Winslow Sports Park. Specific upgrades across the system include:
- Winslow Sports Park: Installation of turf infields on four junior ballfields and a full transition to energy-efficient LED overhead lighting.
- Court Conversions: Transformation of underutilized tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts.
- Infrastructure Repairs: Replacing aging playground equipment alongside widespread asphalt repairs on damaged parking lots and trails.
Revenue Generation for Long-Term Upkeep
Beyond grant and bond financing, the plan outlines a strategy to generate self-sustaining revenue for ongoing maintenance:
- Property Realignment: Evaluating the city-owned property at 349 S. Walnut St. (currently leased by The Project School) to either sell the asset or adjust rent to current market value.
- Corporate Partnerships: Contracting an outside firm to manage naming rights and sponsorship sales for sports facilities, directing proceeds directly into facility upkeep.
The timing and rollout of each initiative will depend on final funding allocations, project readiness, and construction scheduling.
How to Have Your Say
The Investment Priorities Plan was built using data from comprehensive facility assessments, community surveys, stakeholder input, and staff evaluations. City officials are inviting residents to review the detailed proposal and share their perspectives to help guide implementation priorities.
- Review & Submit: Access the full plan and submit public comments online at bton.in/H3park.
- Deadline: Public feedback will be accepted through October 18, 2026.
