Cocoa council approves up to $300,000 for Junie Rios Park improvements

The Cocoa City Council voted April 29 to allocate up to $300,000 for improvements at Junie Rios Park, approving a package that includes exercise-trail equipment and installation, a second pavilion, playground equipment and safety surfacing.

Staff presented a line-by-line estimate that originally totaled $115,000 for a set of amenities (exercise trail equipment/install $65,500; two barbecue grills $1,000; playground shade $31,000; playground equipment $18,000), then discussed additional items and a second pavilion. Councilmember (speaker 11) moved to increase the budget authorization to up to $300,000 to include the pavilion and additional playground items; the motion included any necessary budget-change actions and was seconded and approved unanimously.

Council members asked to review site plans for the pavilion and to have input on specific playground equipment. Councilmember Weeks requested to be involved in reviewing equipment choices so staff can ensure items meet community needs. City staff indicated the $300,000 authorization is an upper limit and that staff will return with procurement documents and site plans as needed.

The authorization includes direction that any final purchases follow procurement rules and that staff return with itemized bids and proposed installation timelines.