State approves nearly $4 million for Dillon State Park visitor improvements

The State Controlling Board approved a Department of Natural Resources request of about $4 million for visitor‑experience improvements at Dillon State Park.

Ryan Frazee, chief financial officer for DNR, described a package of work that includes replacing the existing splash pad, adding a nearby pavilion for picnics and events, installing a pickleball court, shade structures, renovating existing facilities, resurfacing tennis and basketball courts, improving lighting and adding sidewalks. “Dillon State Park, one of our most popular state parks…we intend to use this $4,000,000 with [a] laundry list of improvements,” Frazee said.

Senator Kahler asked how much of the $4 million is devoted to the splash zone; DNR staff (Troy, Capital Programs Manager) estimated the splash component at roughly 25% of the project. Frazee said the ideas for improvements came from user feedback and the park manager confirmed the campground had not seen significant recent updates.

With no objections, the board approved the project.

The approval allows the agency to proceed with planned renovations and construction on the Dillon site; DNR said it can provide further cost breakdowns on request.