West Branch continues path to park improvements

WEST BRANCH — Residents here say children often spend their summers on bicycles and in the library. And while parks offer some playground equipment, the town has little in terms of large areas for countless other summer traditions.

'The kids need something to do during the summer,' said Al Eakes, a 35-year resident of West Branch.

The financing, combined with sales tax revenue, will cover the first phase improvements to existing parks and new additions. Most estimates, which only cover some of the whole plan, predict at least $7 million will be spent.

The centerpiece of the plan is a park complex near a growing subdivision in Pedersen Valley, just a few minutes from downtown.

City Administrator Matt Muckler said the city needs this project to compete with its neighboring cities.

'If we really want to attract more people and grow, we need to provide the same amenities other communities are providing,' he said.

Both Muckler and Parks and Recreation Director Melissa Russell expect voters to back the measure. A sentiment shared by community in a city survey about the topic.

Eakes said the city has considered similar proposals, but 'it's never been on the front burner.'

A change began to occur when the city council bought the land that will be used for the park, and a major overhaul was included in the city's latest comprehensive plan.

Financing such a big expense called for splitting the project into five phases. Phase one will fill the empty valley with three baseball fields, two will be built for Little League games while the other will be geared toward adult softball.

First phase improvement projects include: making Lions ADA accessible and adding a public restroom, sand volleyball courts at Beranek, trailhead parking at Wapsi.

Muckler said the goal is to open the Peterson Valley baseball complex in 2016. Later additions to the same property could include a community center, relocated and expanded library and even a pool.

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