Committee backs change to Brain Park phasing to advance restrooms, defer playground and pavilion

Marshfield parks and recreation director Justin Caspersonson asked the Finance, Budget and Personnel Committee on March 3 to approve Budget Resolution 05-2026 to change the phasing of the Brain Park redevelopment.

Caspersonson told the committee the recommended modification "will improve construction sequencing, reduce redundant infrastructure work and enhance the overall cost efficiency while maintaining the planned project completion date of 2028." He said advancing the restroom work allows utilities to be installed once as a central hub, avoiding temporary connections and re-excavation later.

Under the proposed adjustment, the restroom project would be advanced from 2027 to 2026 and the playground and pavilion deferred from 2026 to 2027. Caspersonson said the net difference between the affected phases is approximately $10,000 and that completed components to date (pickleball in 2024, softball last year) leave the overall capital improvement plan intact.

Committee members asked whether the resolution changes the amount identified in the CIP and whether the spending is being relabeled to reflect the altered scope. Caspersonson said the shift is primarily a sequencing change rather than a net budget change: "We're cleaning it up," he replied, and staff will reflect the revisions in next year’s CIP cycle.

With no further discussion, the committee moved, seconded and approved recommending Council approval of Budget Resolution 05-2026. The resolution now advances to the full common council and requires Board of Public Works concurrence as noted by staff.