Council authorizes RFP for 143-acre regional park and approves inclusive equipment for Eager Park

The council authorized staff to solicit proposals for master planning and design of a 143-acre Imperial Regional Park located on Labrucier Road in the northern portion of the city. Parks and Recreation Director Lopez said the city received a $1.5 million congressional planning grant to fund master planning, feasibility and engineering to create a shovel-ready project for future construction grants.

Lopez said the solicitation will invite qualified firms and that an ad-hoc committee composed of council members and department staff will help evaluate proposals; he also said the process can include public workshops and milestones to gather community input.

On a separate action, the council approved purchase of inclusive playground equipment for Eager Park and authorized staff to seek construction bids. Lopez said the equipment package includes ADA-accessible mobility components, sensory features and a fitness/health element; the project includes a $207,167.75 match and equipment lead time of about 16 weeks, targeting a September construction start. The motions passed unanimously, 3-0.