Brenno Carillo, Daytona Beach News-Journal
·4 min read
Port Orange’s several city parks are a popular option among residents for a nice summer day outdoors.
And like other Volusia County cities, Port Orange is continuing to grow, and “keeping up with the needs of our residents is an ongoing challenge,” according to officials.
That’s why on Aug. 20, Port Orange citizens will have the opportunity to vote on a general obligation bond measure that would allow the city to secure up to $30 million to be spent in renovating and expanding portions of its city parks over the next 30 years.
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“Through the issuance of a general obligation bond, we aim to continue to create a park system that caters to the diverse needs of our community members, providing recreational opportunities for all ages and interests,” according to the proposed bond’s website.
So far, Port Orange parks are included in five proposed projects that are planned to be funded if the measure is approved.
“Projects will include new sports fields, restoration of historic sites, renovate aging parks, trails to improve safe ways to navigate the city, and indoor recreation space to host recreation and sports programs for all ages,” according to the city.
What is a bond referendum?
According to the city website, “a bond referendum allows voters to decide if the city should be authorized to borrow funding for capital projects with general obligation bonds that are backed by a pledge of the full faith and credit of the city.
“Bond financing is often used for capital projects that are above and beyond the scope of the annual operating budget or are utilized for projects that will benefit citizens for many years in the future.”
How would the city pay for the bond funds?
The city would repay the bond cost “over time in installments” through property taxes from homeowners, businesses, rental properties and investors.
To see how much they would pay in taxes when all the bonds are issued, residents can access poparksbondfacts.com/calculator — a feature in the city’s newly created bond website.
What city park projects will be involved?
There are five proposed city park projects that would be funded by the bond measure, according to the city’s website.
These projects “have derived from input from our community, our Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and City Council.”
The Coraci Park expansion project would feature:
“Six multipurposefields will be constructed to accommodate a variety of sports and recreational activities such as soccer, football and more.”
“A scenic 5K trail will be created around the existing and improved park area, offering opportunities for walking, running and cycling.”
“A new parking area will be constructed north of the existing fields (to) accommodate the increased traffic to the park.”
The city’s Depot Park is home to the oldest surviving Florida East Coast Railway Freight Depot, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its renovation project would include:
“Refurbishment of the interior space within the depot structure.”
“Renovation efforts will include structural enhancements, aesthetic upgrades, and the installation of modern amenities to ensure the preservation of historical elements.”
Parking and infrastructure improvements.
Just over a year after the city reopened its renovated Recreation Education and Culture (or REC) center, the proposed bond could give way to the New REC West project, which involves:
“A 12,000-square-foot gymnasium, built to accommodate numerous recreational activities.”
“REC West will feature a dedicated office space, lobby and common area.”
New structure will offer spaces for “gatherings, community meetings, workshops and special events.”
White Place Park, which is currently closed, will go through a revitalization project that will bring modern features to one of the city’s oldest parks:
“White Place Park will now feature a winding walking path around a pond that will assist with stormwater control in the area.”
“Newly constructed playground and pavilion will also be featured,” as well as parking improvements.
“The existing pickleball courts will receive an upgrade to surfacing, improved lighting and enhanced amenities.”
Near the City Center and Horizon Elementary School, Willow Run Park’s proposed expansion project includes:
“Two lighted multipurpose fields, providing ample space for a variety of recreational activities and sports.”
“Anewly constructed restroom/support building adjacent to the fields,” as well as “a new parking facility.”
The bond will also be used toward overall trail improvements and expansions throughout the city, especially new wayfinding signage, according to officials.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Port Orange voters to decide $30M bond referendum for city parks
