Dog, skate park discussions deferred until April 8 meeting

Crestview Public Works Director Wayne Steele indicates the location of a proposed skate and dog park on an aerial photo of Twin Hills Park.

CRESTVIEW — The Community Redevelopment Agency agreed Monday evening to defer discussion of a proposed skate park and dog park until its April 8 meeting.

The decision came because a final report is unready for consideration; additionally, the deferral will allow the new board to be seated after it takes office April 1.

Public Works Director Wayne Steele said he and police officer Sam Kimmons met with student skaters at Crestview High School, who offered input on the skate park's amenities. A set of stairs topped the students’ wishlist.

"It's one of the main obstacles they like to go down," Steele said, adding the kids requested "at least five" steps.

Stairs were already among the park’s features under consideration. The kids responded enthusiastically to the proposed skate park, he said.

The proposed skate park and dog park would be adjacent to each other and situated on Twin Hills Park’s north side.

Steele said he has also discussed Garden Park improvements with representatives of the Dogwood Garden Club, which collaborates with the city to beautify the triangular public space at the foot of Main Street.

After the park’s April 25 dedication, club members and Public Works staff will meet to create a master plan for park improvements, Steele said.

Among considerations would be signage at the park’s south tip identifying the entrance to historic downtown Crestview. A possible digital panel would promote downtown festivals and events. Councilman Tim Grandberry has frequently requested such a sign.

Crestview City Council members also sit as the CRA board. The new council, including three new members, will be seated April 1.

Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Brian Hughes at 850-682-6524 or brianh@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbBrian.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Dog, skate park discussions deferred until April 8 meeting