GoColumbiaMo Parks

3M Wetlands Restoration Project - treating stormwater

2012-02-03T15:43:00.008-06:00

Today's rain is the first event that will start the filling of the wetlands project. Full pool will be attained in the first cell with the rains projected through tomorrow afternoon and the filling of the second pool will begin with subsequent rains.

Winter Wheat and Annual Rye were sown as the first rain fell this morning and hopefully will sprout with through the rest of the winter season.

With all the final stage of the grading operations, funded by the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation's Five Star Grant, native planting will resume over the next few months. There will be some 500 + additional native trees and shrubs planted by TreeKeepers & CARP volunteers, provided by Missouri Forest ReLeaf. Several thousand native wetland plants will be installed in the new wetlands by the same volunteers, funding provided by National Fish & Wildlife Foundation's Five Star Grant for $25,000.

Work on the on covered observation structure continues with new and innovative ideas being considered each day, more to come on that as funding allows!!

Work has begun on the $20,000 Missouri State Parks RTP Grant for an accessible interpretive sign system for the wetlands that will include interpretive information about the site and its functions and purposes...more information to come on that too as progress is made!!

Barn siding is up at the Maplewwod Barn

2012-02-02T16:51:00.004-06:00

The barn is looking a lot more like a barn with the installation of most of the siding. There's still some exterior trim and much interior work to do but the project is mmaking great time with the mild winter.

3M Wetlands Restoration Project open for business

2012-02-02T16:23:00.002-06:00

Today saw the last of the grading work and reconnection of the temporarily diverted flow. Rain is in the forecast, so this will be the first test of the completed graded pools!

3M Urban Ecology Restoration Project - observation deck work

2012-02-01T11:25:00.007-06:00

The non-load bearing walls have been removed from the structure in preparation for the conversion into a covered observation area. The weather has been unbelievably kind and the majority of the remaining site grading will be completed this week.

The preceding image is looking down the wetland system with the graded wetland 'riverbed' water will flow along this flat alignment as it is introduced into the wetlands. Native wetland plants will be installed with Parks staff and volunteer events.

We hope to allow the permanent source of water to flow back into the site very soon.

3M Urban Ecology Restoration Grant structure backfill

2012-01-12T15:39:00.008-06:00

This week, until today, saw the grading contractor back on site. The remainder of the 'riverbed' channel and splash pool are in the first stages of being formed. The abandoned pump house structure is being back-filled with the excavated materials from the riverbed. This will make a manageable slope running from the riverbed up to what will be the green-roofed structure.

The non load-bearing masonry walls (seen here in tan) will be removed and the structure will have four open sides. It will house some of the interpretive sign system that is in the process of being designed. From the structure you will be able to view the M-K-T trail and look across the wetlands cells, due south. This will be an exciting addition to an already valuable project.

The Maplewood Barn building is under roof

2012-01-07T15:56:00.002-06:00

The good weather over the last week has really let Sircal Construction get a lot of progress on the Maplewood Barn.

The exterior walls and roof have been erected. The building will be wrapped in Tyvek (a water protection material that also helps stop drafts) next week. The siding may get started as well. The metal roofing will then get going.

Here's hoping the "winter" weather continues.

First Level Walls of the Maplewood Barn are up

2011-12-22T16:31:00.002-06:00

Sircal Construction just completed the first level walls. Next they'll install the beams and columns for the second level and roof. Considering they started last week and lost a couple days to weather it's going up pretty quickly.

GoColumbiaMO Stormwater Utility: Green Roof AND Green WALLS

2011-12-22T11:35:00.000-06:00

GoColumbiaMO Stormwater Utility: Green Roof AND Green WALLS

Green roof trip

2011-12-21T16:08:00.008-06:00

Dr. Hwei-Yiing Johnson, State Agronomist with Cooperative Extension at Lincoln University hosted a tour of the Allen T. Busby Farm that showcases some of her research on green roof/facade and food mulching/composting. A mix of City, County and University professionals visited the site to learn more about these activities.

Dr.Johnson's excitement and enthusiasm were not dampened by the cold north wind!

Installed green roof and multiple applications of green facades.

Maplewood Barn walls are going up

2011-12-16T09:14:00.013-06:00

Sircal Construction started installing the wall panels for the new barn yesterday. These panels are constructed of OSB with foam in between. They have great insulation and, once connected together, form a very sturdy wall and roof system. Plus they go up very quickly. The "barn" should be be looking like a barn pretty soon. Then the interior work should begin.

Scotts Branch Trail

2011-12-13T14:21:00.003-06:00

The 8' wide concrete trail from Rollins to Weaver has been completed. We will begin back filling the trail with soil, placing straw mulch and spreading winter wheat for erosion control as soon as the weather allows.

2011 RTP Non-Motorized Trail Interpretive Sign Grant

2011-12-13T08:27:00.004-06:00

The City of Columbia Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce that we are a recipient of the 2011 RTP Interpretive/Educational Grant . Please click here to see the news release or here to learn more about the grant. This grant in the amount of $20,000 will be used to install a system of interpretive signs, and provide educational materials for the general public. This is an important grant as it will allow the city to share important information about the site and it's functions for the City and it's downstream neighbours.

3M Urban Ecology Restoration Grant digging in.

2011-11-21T12:37:00.006-06:00

Volunteer Columbia had a great turn out for the Native Tree Planting event this past weekend at the 3M Urban Ecology Restoration Project. Volunteer Columbia has posted photos of the event here. Thanks to all who participated in this first of several planting events that will be held here.

Twin Lakes Recreation Area road is open

2011-11-18T15:38:00.003-06:00

The final course of asphalt was installed today on the Twin Lakes Recreation Area entry road. There's still a lot to do and clean up but the road is open. Please keep an eye out for crews and materials such as top soil along the road.

Scotts Branch Trail

2011-11-16T11:56:00.003-06:00

Work has begun on the first part of the Scotts Branch Trail. We are starting at Weaver St. and working our way back to Rollins Road with the 8' wide concrete trail.

Approximately 1/3 of the trail from Weaver to Rollins is completed. We have some grading and culvert pipe work to do and then, weather permitting, we should be able to complete the section from Weaver St. to Rollins Road by Dec. 1, 2011. Finish grading work, seeding and straw work will be ongoing into the Spring.

Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary

2011-11-16T11:52:00.004-06:00

The grading for the parking lot at Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary is nearing completion. We have begun placing the gravel base rock to prepare the site for asphalt.

Maplewood Barn Update-Footing dug

2011-11-15T16:40:00.004-06:00

The footing for the new barn was dug earlier today. Rebar will be placed and concrete should be poured in the footing. The slab should follow shortly. After that the pre-engineered panels will arrive and should go up quickly.

Base course of asphalt laid at Twin Lakes Rec Area

2011-11-15T16:31:00.004-06:00

The base course of asphalt was laid earlier today at Twin Lakes Recreation Area. If the weather stays as predicted the final asphalt will be installed on Friday (11/18). There's still ditch work, removal of some old asphalt, seeding/strawing and landscaping to do but the road will be open. But please keep an eye out for crews doing the finishing work.

Twin Lake Rec Area Paving

2011-11-10T14:22:00.003-06:00

The majority of the rock work got done in record time. Now the weather needs to cooperate a bit. There needs to be about 3 dry week days in row so the portions of the road getting an overlay can be swept and then the entire length of the road can be paved.

Hopefully the sweeping can occur on Monday or Tuesday of next week (11/14) with the paving immediately after.

3M Urban Ecology Restoration Grant takes to the air.

2011-11-08T08:13:00.002-06:00

On 10/30/2011 Parks & Rec and the Stormwater Educator took part in an interview about the 3M wetlands project, amongst others. Please click to hear what was discussed. For additional information on KFRU's programming please click here.

Treekeepers and C.A.R.P event scheduled for Saturday, November 19th 2011

2011-11-01T15:23:00.006-05:00

Treekeepers and C.A.R.P are co-hosting a native tree and shrub planting event scheduled for Saturday, November 19th 2011 at the site of the Urban Ecology Restoration Project funded in part by the 3M Foundation. Join us as we plant close to 500 trees and 500 shrubs suited for wetland and bottomland woods environment. Free snacks and beverages will be available to participants!! Exercise is FREE!!!

TLRA work is moving quickly

2011-10-31T08:45:00.005-05:00

The work for the road repairs is going rather quickly. Both the old pipes have been replaced and three new ones have been installed. A lot of the rock work was completed as well. All of this in three days. And while getting the drive re-opened by 3 pm.

The next step is working on the ends on the entry road. Work will start at the south end (near the lots). Later this week the work will move to actual entrance. When the entrance work occurs NO PARKING ANYWHERE ALONG THE ROAD WILL BE POSSIBLE. Some people have been parking near the entrance. Please realize that there is a lot of construction traffic, especially rock trucks. If you park anywhere along the road your vehicle may be damaged. Please either walk in or use one of the other dog parks during the day.

Please be aware that conditions are changing daily on the site. This is a work in progress and our hope is finish quickly. This means that a lane that was not too bumpy today may be very uneven tomorrow. Materials that were far away from the road edge yesterday may be right next to it today.

Please keep an eye out for changing conditions, materials, equipment and especially personnel.

10-18-2011 removal of Invasive Honeysuckle from 3M UERP

2011-10-28T15:55:00.005-05:00

As part of the partnership agreement with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation's grant conservation measures, our Forestry crew removed the majority of the Invasive Honeysuckle that has been growing on the northern embankment of the M-K-T trail. The activity is also being done in preparation for the undergrounding of the existing overhead power lines that parallel the trail. This undergrounding work is a partnership between Parks & Recreation and Water & Light.

The two main values to the citizens of Columbia and goals of this particular activity will be;

1. Elimination of the maintenance need to trim trees along alignment, thereby reducing the expenditure of monies for this work and the common problem of tree topping or killing of trees.

and

2. Bringing the view shed of the site back to what the natural area would look like without human influence.

We hope you enjoy this new outdoor recreational area as we finish out our work over the winter months.

Also, keep and eye out for the Get-About project that is slated to begin in the Spring that will connect Katy Parkway to the M-K-T Trail winding through the wooded hillside above the wetlands site.

Twin Lakes Rec Area Road Repairs Starting Wednesday October 26. Road and Lots closed during 7AM-3PM weekdays

2011-10-25T16:42:00.004-05:00

Just a reminder...

The repair work for the Twin Lakes Recreation Area entry road begins tomorrow (Wednesday 10/26). The road and parking lots will be closed to public traffic from 7AM to 3PM Monday to Friday. The road and lots will be open after 3PM weekdays and on the weekends.

This closure is necessary so the work for the road repair can proceed safely. And while the road will be open in the evenings and on weekends please be careful and attentive. There will possible lane closures, loose rock, equipment and materials in the area. The road will probably be quite rough as well.

The Parks and Recreation Dept is anticipating the work to take several weeks. Once the rock work is done the asphalt will only take a day or two.

The blog will be updated with more info, schedules, closures etc.

Please be patient and careful. With some good weather there should be a new road in a couple weeks.

Shepard tennis courts are completed!

2011-10-17T12:50:00.002-05:00

The replacment of two tennis courts at Shepard School/ Park is complete. We still have soil, seed and straw work left around the courts, but the courts themselves are ready for public use. There are also 4 new basketball goals on the courts and lines for pickle-ball play. We hope you enjoy Columbia's newest tennis courts.

Twin Lakes Rec Area Road and Parking Lots Closure Beginning Wednesday October 26, 2011

2011-10-10T09:25:00.010-05:00

Beginning Wednesday October 26 the Twin Lakes Recreation Area entry road and parking lots will be CLOSED TO ALL PUBLIC TRAFFIC during the hours of 7 am to 3 pm Monday-Friday. The road and lots will be re-opened each evening and on the weekends. There will be construction traffic but no private traffic will be allowed. These closures will remain in effect until the road work is completed. If the weather holds, the work should be completed in mid November.

The park will remain open during these hours. However no traffic will be allowed on the road or on the parking lots. If you'd like to access the park during weekdays please use the MKT Trail from either Forum Nature Area or the MKT access at Scott Blvd. You can also use the new County House Trail that starts at Stadium Blvd and College Park Dr.

If you're looking for a place to run your dog during the day it may be easier to use one of the two other fenced dog parks at Garth Nature Area and at Indian Hills Park. Off leash areas are available at Grindstone Nature Area and in Cosmo Park- Bear Creek Nature Area. See the Leash-Free Areas for Dogs page for more info.

After 3 pm weekdays and on weekends the road will be passable. However, work may still be going on. Please watch for lane closures, loose rock, bumps and uneven pavement. Also watch for equipment, construction materials and any directions you're given from workers on site.

This will be a challenging project trying to balance getting the road back into shape and allowing for some access. Please be patient and watchful.

Twin Lakes Rec Area Entry Road work to begin soon

2011-10-03T16:26:00.004-05:00

If the weather holds and other projects cooperate, the work to repair the entry road at Twin Lakes Recreation Area (TLRA) will begin in a couple weeks.

This work will require the road to be CLOSED TO ALL PUBLIC TRAFFIC during the hours of 7 am to 3 pm Monday-Friday. The road will be re-opened each evening and on the weekends.

If you need to access the park during the day Monday-Friday, please use the MKT Trail or the new County House Trail. Both will remain open during the road closures.

The dog park will be open. However access during the day will only be via the MKT or County House Trails. The two other fenced dog parks available at Garth Nature Area and at Indian Hills Park. Off leash areas are available at Grindstone Nature Area and in Cosmo Park- Bear Creek Nature Area. Please see our off-leash info webpage.

This closure is for the safety of the public. There will be impassable areas, trenching for pipes and many rock trucks. All of these present safety hazards to people and property.

The closure is also necessary so the construction work can proceed quickly. Every time construction is stopped for a passing car, bike or pedestrian adds to the length of the road closure.

If you have questions/comments please call 874-7201 or e-mail Toney Lowery at ajlowery@gocolumbiamo.com

Parks & Rec Presence on Google Maps

2011-09-29T08:59:00.003-05:00

Over the last several months the Parks and Recreation Department has been reviewing it's presence on Google Maps. In the Spring of 2011 it was noticed that there were only four of the system's parks shown and with one exception, none were correctly shown. Since then there has been a concerted effort to represent the park system more accurately and show the amenities and trails as best as the technology will allow. We invite you to browse each park and let us know what we might have overlooked!

"Houston we have base rock" 9-27-2011

2011-09-27T15:49:00.005-05:00

Forestry has brought in almost all the base rock for the perimeter trail. Tomorrow the rock with be graded in preparation for the surface rock. There is still quite a bit of rock and soil work to do at the far south end of the trail( where it meets the M-K-T). So for the meantime there will be a period where no connectivity between the two remains.

Today the last concrete pour was made at the pump house building, to fill in the window, door and floor openings. Now the count starts for 28 days before back filling operations can commence. Back filling will be the first stage in the preparation for the green of the structure.

Urban Ecology Restoration Project 9-23-2011

2011-09-23T15:06:00.004-05:00

Non-woven geo-fabric has been installed in preparation for trail base rock material. The installation of geo-fabric reduces the amount of base rock required to build a trail, thereby reducing the time and cost of trail installation and maintenance. This is a pilot project for a greener way of trail construction.

Forestry's four man permanent crew will continue their efforts to get this trail built and open for users as fast as they possibly can while contending with the many other responsibilities and projects they have to work on concurrently.

Maplewood Barn site work begins

2011-09-22T13:41:00.002-05:00

Work has started on the rebuilding of the Maplewood barn. The concrete floor of the original barn has been demoed and the regrading of the site has started. This work is to prep the site for the new barn. The work on the new building should started soon. The bid has been awarded and the contracts/bonding are being worked on now.

Playground at Cosmo Bethel Park has been replaced!

2011-09-20T09:16:00.003-05:00

The playground at Bethel Park has been replaced following the fire that burned down the uppermost playground and slides. This very popular playground is now fully operational. Enjoy!

3M Urban Ecology Restoration Project gets more visitors...the two legged kind

2011-09-16T11:37:00.005-05:00

September 15th, 2011 the Central Missouri Community Forestry Council came to visit the site and see what we are doing with trail building and the plans for reforesting parts of the site. If you click here, you'll be taken to their Facebook page.

3M Urban Ecology Restoration Project gets visitors...the two legged kind

2011-09-16T11:29:00.006-05:00

September 9th the wetlands project had a good visit from some of the participants of Job Point. These young men and women were on their way to do a clean sweep of the Hinkson Creek and stopped by to learn a little about the project and it's purpose. To see photos of the visit please click here

Power Shut Off at Twin Lakes Recreation Area

2011-09-13T13:22:00.003-05:00

As part of the entry work, the electric lines are being put underground. To finish this work the power for the shelter and the restroom will be shut off temporarily. Columbia Water and Light anticipates this outrage to only last a short time while the lines are re-connected. The shut off will occur sometime between 8 am Wednesday Sept 14 and 4 pm Friday Sept 16. Please contact Parks and Recreation for more information.

Hindman Discovery Garden update.

2011-09-02T10:40:00.006-05:00

Crews are working on placing boulders and spreading topsoil for future garden platings.

The walkway approaching the Living Wall area.

Notice the new limestone bench that has just been installed!

Park Construction crews are boring holes for the footings

for benches and for the overlook railing.

A cut limestone bench that has recently been installed.

Shepard tennis courts update

2011-09-02T10:27:00.005-05:00

Christensen Construction has made great progress on the tennis courts at Shepard School.

The grading is complete, geo-fabric is placed and covered with 6" of gravel

prior to the asphalt surface.

The gravel is graded smooth, rolled and compacted, the slopes are checked for proper drainage, prior to asphalt paving.

The first layer of asphalt is complete. A second layer of finer asphalt goes down over this layer before fencing, net posts and paint coats.

The playground at Bethel Park is being re-built.

2011-09-02T10:19:00.003-05:00

The playground at Bethel Park caught fire and has been out of use.

As of September 2, the old playground had been removed and the construction of a new playground piece had begun. A few missing parts mean that the playground will not be available until after the Labor Day weekend. The contractor is scheduled to return and complete the project during the week of September 6.

Construction of the new playground has begun!

New sign for Douglass Park

2011-09-02T10:06:00.002-05:00

The new entrance sign at Douglass Park is completed. We still have some landscape work to do to clean up the site.

Shepard tennis courts

2011-08-26T13:50:00.004-05:00

We have begun demolition of the existing tennis courts at Shepard School. This is a joint project between the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation and the Columbia Public Schools. The two approximately 20 year old tennis courts will be replaced with two new courts in the same location. The 4 basketball goals will be replaced as part of the project and lines will be added to these courts to allow for pickleball play as well.

The fence was removed on Thursday Aug. 25

and the asphalt is being removed today, Friday Aug. 26.

Keep checking back for more updates!

Urban Ecology Restoration Project

2011-08-19T15:47:00.006-05:00

Progress on the wetlands cells has been good with the dry weather of the last month. But all good things must come to and end.

This image shows the first pool after a 1.5" rainfall, and only catching from a small percentage of the total 140 acre watershed.

The Schematic below shows what the anticipated wetlands will look like from a birds eye perspective. The first pool is the larger of the three to the right of the image.

Indian Hills Dog Park

2011-08-18T14:17:00.005-05:00

There is a new Dog Park in Columbia! We have recently completed the construction of a new dog park in Indian Hills Park. It can be accessed from the Aztec Blvd. entrance to Indian Hills Park. It is about 1.5 acres and it has picnic tables to sit at while your dog runs through the variety of shady and sunny areas. This dog park has no pond or lake so if you are one who does not want your dog to get wet while playing, you might choose to come to this dog park. Please see the below link for how to get to Indian Hills Park in northeast Columbia.

Link to Indian Hills Dog Park.

Indian Hills Dog Park in a beautiful setting!

Hindman Discovery Garden at Stephens Lake Park

2011-08-18T14:03:00.012-05:00

Rough grading and boulder work is underway at the Hindman Discovery Garden. Most of the large boulders have been placed, the overlook wall is completed, most of the Council Ring has been completed and work has begun on the living wall. Please see the photos below to view the progress.

View of the overlook from the Stephens Lake Trail.

The living wall under construction.

Boulders being set by the grading contractor.

The Council Ring grading is complete. We still have a lot of planting to do.

Posted by MS 8-18-2011.

Twin Lakes Recreation Area entry road

2011-08-16T11:39:00.004-05:00

The entry road for Twin Lakes Recreation Area will be undergoing some much needed re-construction soon.

The road has been deteriorating for several years now and is in need of a major rebuild. The high water table, poor drainage, several years of above average rain, several years of very cold winters and the construction of the County House trail have all taken their toll.

However repairs and reconstruction will begin shortly.

The first work will be the undergrounding of the electric lines coming into the park. This work has already begun and will continue for the next several weeks. There will be short interuptions in electric service to the park during this time.

Funding for the road re-build should be available October 1st. At that time the real road work will begin. Be on the look out for heavy equipment, lane and/or road closures, rock and other construction materials.

Last bridge at Wilson Park nearing completion

2011-07-29T14:35:00.005-05:00

The last, and most difficult bridge, in Wilson Park is nearing completion. After it's done site clean up and site restoration will really begin. Trail maintenance will be ongoing. Any planting will be held off for awhile until it cools off some. This will give the plants a better survival chance.

Please be very careful as you use the park. Equipment, construction material and waste material are still present in the park. Some of the trails have not been re-worked yet.

Fencing for the New Field at Atkins

2011-07-29T14:28:00.005-05:00

The fencing work for the new field at Atkins Memorial Park has started. The backstop poles and most of the 16 foot line posts are in. If the weather holds the contractor may be be done in about two weeks with the rest of the fencing. Other work such as irrigation, lights infield construction will remain to be done.

The new field will be an on-going construction site for some time. Please keep away from all construction and materials for your safety.

Wilson Park bridges and trails

2011-07-08T12:03:00.005-05:00

Work on the replacement of the bridges is moving along nicely. The weather has been cooperating and the crews are charging ahead.

One bridge is complete and another will be shortly. Abutment walls, steel and decking are in for the third. The last bridge will be demolished soon.

Once the bridges are complete the restoration of the area can start. The majority of that work will happen this fall though because of better planting conditions.

The repair and rehab of the trails is continuing although much of the major work is done.

Lange Park is completed

2011-06-21T08:55:00.003-05:00

Lange Park has been completed. This neighborhood park has a playground, open playfield (good for pickup soccer games, kite flying or just running around on) and a non-reservable shelter (first come/first serve).

There's also a walking trail that when used with the sidewalk along Smiley Lane is 1/3 of mile.

Don't forget about the 400 meter track as well. As part of the agreement with Lange Middle School, Parks and Recreation built the track. During non school hours it's available for public use. The track is located behind the classroom trailer on the top of the hill.

Construction of New Field at Atkins

2011-06-15T08:47:00.003-05:00

Construction of a new baseball field at Thomas E. "Country" Atkins Jr. Memorial Park will begin shortly. The field will be 350 feet to center and 315 feet to the right and left field corners. The fence will be constructed first with the other components to follow.

Bridge replacement at Wilson Park

2011-06-08T09:17:00.006-05:00

After getting the agreement with the University of Missouri and final approval from City Council work on replacing the bridges at Clyde Wilson Memorial Park (aka Rockhill Park) has begun. The concrete walls, steel and decking have been installed for the first bridge on the Rollins Ave side. No railings have been install because of the equipment the crews are bringing across.

The second bridge has been demolished. Replacement work for it should begin immediately.

Please be advised these bridges are active construction sites. Conditions and access may change daily. While the park is open, trail access and drainage crossings may be impossible. Please excerise care while the construction is occurring.

Other trail work on the Rockhill trail and the Wilson and the Rollins entries have been going on as weather and other projects allow. Again these trails may change considerably from day to day. Be prepared for loose or uneven surfaces as the work progresses.

Wrapping up work at Lange Park

2011-06-08T09:05:00.002-05:00

With the drying weather the construction crew has made a lot of progress over the last month or so. The Shelter has been completed and the concrete walkways have been poured. There is still final dress up (removal of construction debris, re-grading excess soil) and landscaping (over seed the play field, removal of silt fence). But it's getting very close to completion.

M-K-T Bridge Remnants

2011-04-13T12:56:00.005-05:00

As reported on KOMU.com the bridge sections for a historical display are being stored on site in preparation for our construction crews to be able to start work on the historical marker.
Construction is scheduled for later this summer.

Wilson Park (aka Rockhill) update

2011-03-31T11:50:00.005-05:00

Now that the weather is finally a little better some more work is being done on the Wilson Park.

The most obvious change will be the new bridge on the Rockhill Road side. It's construction is being done as part of an Eagle Scout project by Adam Stansfield of Troop 121.

Other trail maintenance is being done by the P&R Forestry crew.

We are still waiting on an agreement with the University of Missouri to access the trail and bridges from their property for the majority of the work to begin.

Winter Dog Park at Twin Lakes Recreation Area

2010-12-01T16:17:00.003-06:00

For the months of December, January and February we will have the winter dog park area open to the public at Twin Lakes Recreation Area. The small pond in this area is much shallower than the large lake adjacent to the summer dog park, so the chance of a dog going through the ice and needing assistance is much less likely. March 1st we will open the large lake dog park area again. Please click on the image below for a larger image of the winter changes.

2010 Park Sales Tax Passes with 64%

2010-11-03T14:08:00.002-05:00

Thank you to everyone that voted and supported the 2010 Park Sales Tax renewal. It was great to see that 31,888 of you voted for Proposition 1 with 20,520 of you placing a "Yes" vote.

For a complete list of projects that will be funded, please click here.

Work on Lange Shelter continues

2010-11-02T13:20:00.005-05:00

Work on the shelter for Lange Park continues. The good weather has helped to keep construction moving along. The trusses, sheathing and tar paper are up. Work on the soffit is next.

ARC lot work is complete

2010-10-12T16:30:00.005-05:00

The work on the ARC lot has been completed. There will be an occasional closure for restriping the parking areas but the large closures will be opened on Friday night (10/15).

Lange Park shelter under construction

2010-10-12T15:36:00.007-05:00

The shelter for Lange Park is under construction. Hopefully the good weather will continue so that work can continue.

The seeding done earlier is coming in nicely. There will some need for spot seeding next spring but hopefully most of it will really take off after this winter.

ARC parking lot work continues

2010-10-08T08:36:00.006-05:00

The continued good weather means the second part of the ARC lot work was completed and the last portion will start next Monday (Oct 11). The fence for the second portion will be left up until late today (Oct 8) to let the concrete cure a bit more before letting traffic on it.

Click on the image for a larger view or visit the ARC web site for a PDF version.

ARC Lot update

2010-09-30T15:09:00.004-05:00

Thanks to good weather and a good contractor (Tom Adair Construction) the work on the first part of the ARC parking lot repair is complete. The fence will be left up until late Friday (Oct 1) to let the concrete cure a bit more before letting traffic on it.

The weather looks good for next week so expect the second part of the work to begin and a new part of the lot to be closed. Click on the image for a larger view or visit the ARC web site for a PDF version.

ARC Parking Lot Repairs will mean lot closures

2010-09-23T12:53:00.011-05:00

Beginning next Monday (9/27) the ARC (Activity & Recreation Center) parking lot will have some extensive repairs done. Because of the these repairs parts of the lot will be closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The project will last approximately three weeks with different areas being closed as needed. Please be cautious when driving or walking through the lot as equipment and closure areas move.

Please click on the image for a better view. Or go to the ARC web site for a PDF version.

Restroom at Phillips Park is open

2010-09-15T16:33:00.004-05:00

The weather and other projects have finally cooperated and allowed crews to do the final utility hook ups for the restroom at Phillips. It is a ADA flush restroom. Plans are to have it operate seasonally which means it will be closed for the winter.

Solar/Wind powered light installed at Philips Park

2010-09-08T16:08:00.005-05:00

The Water and Light Dept has installed a parking lot light at Philips Park next to the ramp. The light uses both solar and wind to power the state of the art LED light. It was installed as a test to see how well the product works. If it is successful it may be used in areas where no electric is available.

A. Perry Philips Park (aka Philips Lake) Update

2010-09-06T19:10:00.003-05:00

Two single table shelters are being constructed along the trail around the lake at A. Perry Philips Park. These shelters are available for donation. Please see the Donation Opportunities at Philips Park page on the Parks and Recreation web site for more information.

Also the utility hook ups for the restroom are continuing and hopefully wrapped up soon.

Hinkson Trail / Old 63 Pedway Project

2010-08-31T13:50:00.009-05:00

HINKSON TRAIL / Old 63 PEDWAY PROJECT

BEGINNING SEPTEMBER, 7th, 2010 WEATHER PERMITTING, JC INDUSTRIES, OF JEFFERSON CITY, MISSOURI, CONTRACTOR FOR THE ABOVE REFERENCED PROJECT WILL BEGIN WORK.

THE WORK IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED BY JANUARY 6TH, 2011.

LANE CLOSURES ON SOUTHBOUND OLD 63 BETWEEN HINKSON CREEK AND STADIUM BLVD. ARE TO BE EXPECTED DURING THIS TIME.

AS PART OF THIS PROJECT THE SINGLE LANE VEHICLE BRIDGE THAT CROSSES HINKSON CREEK, A SECTION OF GREEN VALLEY DRIVE, WILL BE CLOSED PERMANENTLY TO ALL VEHICULAR TRAFFIC AND WILL BE MODIFIED FOR TRAIL USE ONLY.

Work segment from Broadway to Green Valley Dr/ Moon Valley Dr junction

Work segment from Hinkson Creek (as it passes under Old 63 S) to 1501 Old 63 S (just past Old63 & Stadium intersection)

Lot closures at Stephens Lake Park

2010-08-23T11:30:00.003-05:00

The weather's looking good for this week so hopefully the sealing will be finished up this week.

Here are the last two lots for sealing

Old 63 Lot at Stephens will be CLOSED Tuesday August 24 and Wednesday August 25. The contractor will be working on this lot for most of the day.

Riechmann Lot will be CLOSED Thursday August 26 until Noon, Friday August 27.

No traffic, pedestrian or vehicle will be allowed during the closures. Please keep away from the lot. Any dust, grass, foot or vehicle traffic can effect the sealing.

Please note that both the Perimeter Trail the runs along the outside of the park and the Stephens Lake Activity Center (SLAC) will remain open. However please watch for equipment and personnel in these areas.

Trail Update Saturday, August 21, 2010

2010-08-21T07:38:00.007-05:00

After Friday night's storms, there are several trees across the trails and many of the trail treads have ruts and debris.

P&R staff is scheduled to come in on Saturday to begin to work on the trails, so please use caution especially if you see equipment.

Please let us know of any problems you see by emailing Mike Griggs at mbg@GoColumbiaMo.com or leaving a phone message at 573-874-7202.

The Hinkson Creek Trail photos in this post were taken by Jeff B., one of our more ardent trail users.

Stephens Lake Amphitheater 8-20-2010

2010-08-20T10:17:00.002-05:00

The orchestra pit, ADA accessible seating and half of main entry were stained yesterday, 8-19-2010. Next the stage floor and walls will receive the same treatment.

Smiley Lane Park 8-20-2010

2010-08-20T10:12:00.004-05:00

Bioswale & Raingarden almost complete and ready for Autumn planting.

Wildlife already making the best of the water retaining properties of the sand/soil/mulch mix.

After the Rain Garden basin itself is mulched with Rainbow Rock, the storm-water treatment system will be mostly complete, except the plant materials which will be installed in early Autumn. Just around the corner.

Lange Park update

2010-08-11T16:14:00.004-05:00

The weather has cooperated and the work at Lange Park and on the track for Lange Middle School is going well.

The site grading for the park has been completed and most of the trail is in. We have our building permit for the shelter and work will begin on it soon. Seeding of disturbed areas will start soon as well.

The rock work for the track has been completed. There is some touch up along the edges and some seeding in a swale to be done. The swale, behind the trailers, will correct a drainage problem and get runoff to move to the existing inlet.

Lange Park Playground is open

2010-08-06T08:36:00.004-05:00

The playground at Lange Park is open for "business". The playground was installed last week. This week a Parks and Rec crew got most of the curbing installed and got the safety mulch put in. There are no concrete walks yet so if it's wet it will be muddy. Lange Park is located on Smiley Lane near the entrance to Lange Middle School.

Parking Lot closure at Albert Oakland

2010-08-03T13:51:00.002-05:00

The small lot at Edris Drive (behind Oakland Junoir High School and near the basketball court) will be closed for sealing Thursday August 5 through Friday August 6 for sealing. No traffic will be allowed on the lot.

Lange Neighborhood Park

2010-08-02T14:26:00.003-05:00

Construction of the new Lange Park began last week. The Playground has been installed and the area for the shelter has been graded. construction of the curbing around the playground has started. Hopefully a couple dry days will allow for the playground mulch to be delivered.

The first part of the running track at Lange Middle School has been started as well. This 400 meter three lane track will be used by the school PE and athletic clubs during school hours. During non-school use it will be available for the public.

Cosmo Park Lot and Road Closures 8-2 to 8-4

2010-07-30T16:33:00.003-05:00

Asphalt Sealing projects will result in several lot and drive closures next week at Cosmo Park. The lots in front of the Black and Gold fields at the Antimi Complex and the lot by the R/C car area will be CLOSED Monday and Tuesday August 2 and 3.

The road from the Parkside Dr traffic circle to the main North/South drive in Cosmo will be CLOSED Tuesday and Wednesday August 3 and 4. This includes the road back to the T-Ball fields.

No vehicles or pedestrian traffic will be allowed on these areas while they are closed.

This asphalt sealing is an important maintenance item to insure a long life to the pavement in these areas.

Please use the Business Loop or Schwabe entries/exits.

MKT bridge replacement #s 12 & 13

2010-07-30T11:25:00.003-05:00

The trail is officially open the entire length from downtown Columbia to the end of the city section @ Scott Blvd. The first people to cross, when the barricades were "officially" removed, were a runner, a pair of cyclists and a couple out for a walk, they probably did not realized it, but they christened bridge #12 and the newly resurfaced trail section.

Parks and Recreation staff still have to do the following at the site, but trail users will be allowed to pass work sites:

- Seeding of native wildflowers, to be performed at all disturbed areas around bridge #12
- Finishing of improved Katy Lakes connection / turn around and switchback.
- Planning for historic bridge marker - using salvaged bridge sections
- Planning and constructing new trail head signs

Houf Construction is installing steel plates that cover the connection from the concrete to steel truss section of bridges, at bridge #12, and a little site remediation work.

The parking lot at Scott Blvd has now been re-opened.

Thank you for your patience through this project. Even though it is July the contractor has only had 78 work days applied to this project, the other 68 days have been non-worked days, due to site, or weather conditions.

MKT Trail re-surfacing bridge #12(3/4 mile West of Twin Lakes) to Scott Blvd

2010-07-29T10:29:00.001-05:00

Even though the Hinkson Creek is running extremely high, progress on
this part of the project will not be impacted. Progress yesterday and
this morning is good and we are hoping to be finished re-surfacing by
the end of the day.

The last of the silt fence will be removed tomorrow and along with the
last barricade.
Metal plates will be installed over the gaps between the concrete
sections and wood deck sections of bridge 12 tomorrow too.

The last part of the project will be the concrete work at the Scott Blvd
parking lot that will not preclude trail users.

MKT bridge replacement #s 12 & 13

2010-07-28T13:29:00.002-05:00

Parks and rec staff and grading contractor are on site, resurfacing
trail today. Even though blue gates have been removed, there is still
construction activity occurring, as signed. Users may enter job site
after 4:30 this afternoon. Trail work is expected to be finished
tomorrow.

Trail users entering from Katy Lake estates will need to take care at the bottom of the hill as base rock has been placed for preliminary trail access improvements to correct drainage issues to the west.

MKT Bridge #12 & #13 7-27-2010

2010-07-27T15:54:00.003-05:00

Today: Houf Construction is working their way out of the site and Roy Richardson & Son, Parks Recreation grading contractor is on the trail re-surfacing the trail from bridge #12 to the Scott Blvd trail access.
Tomorrow: Houf Construction will be removing their equipment and performing any last minute clean up tasks. Roy Richardson & Son, Parks Recreation grading contractor will be on the trail re-surfacing the trail from bridge #12 to the Scott Blvd trail access.

The trail section will remain closed until this weekend when the Parks & Recreation Department intends to have all the temporary gates and barriers removed and have the trail re-opened for all trail users.

Please do not enter the job site over the next few days. The site is a working job site and equipment operators are not always able to see trail users.

MKT Bridge 12 Replacement

2010-07-27T12:50:00.003-05:00

Stephens Lake Park Parking Lot Closures Tues 7/27-Thur 7/29

2010-07-23T15:08:00.004-05:00

Asphalt Sealing projects will result in several lot and drive closures next week at Stephens Lake Park. Tuesday 7/27 to Wednesday 7/28 the Broadway entrance and upper parking lot will be closed to ALL traffic including all vehicles and pedestrian traffic. The will be no access to the park from Broadway on those days. The contractor will work to keep the perimeter trail access open but expect detours and delays.

Wednesday 7/28 to Thursday 7/29 the East parking lot and drive will be closed to ALL traffic including all vehicles and pedestrian traffic.

This asphalt sealing is an important maintenance item to insure a long life to the pavement in these areas.

Please use the lots at Old 63 0r at the Riechmann Pavilion.

MKT Bridge #12 & #13 7-23-2010...4:00p.m. update Trail Open

2010-07-23T13:26:00.004-05:00

Enjoy your trail!!!!

As of 3:30 this afternoon the trail section between Country Wood trail access and Scott Blvd
access is open for this weekend. the trail section will be closed again on Monday morning at 7:30 a.m.

Please use caution when traveling along this section of trail as there is loose rock on the trail in preparation for resurfacing next week. Use of this trail section is at users own risk.

MKT Bridge #12 & #13 7-23-2010..Trail Section Closed

2010-07-23T11:13:00.005-05:00

Due to work in the creek to remove the temporary crossing and approach work on the West end of bridge 12, the trail section is closed today. If the contractor is not working tomorrow then the trail will reopen. Trail users will know if the trail section is open when the blue gate, at the Country Woods access point, is open. Trail users are encouraged not to try to pass the barricades if the contractor is working. The operators have a limited field of vision and are not expecting users in close proximity to their work area.
Thank you for your co-operation!!!

We anticipate only another week or so of trail interruption through this section of the MKT trail

MKT Bridge #12 & #13 7-21-2010...Flooding Flooding Go Away

2010-07-21T14:00:00.002-05:00

The Hinkson is still close to breaking it's banks at the job site. The trail is open to trail users at their own risk. Due care should be taken through the entire length of the work site.

The Missouri is predicated to crest this Friday between Boonville & Jefferson City so flooding on the county and state sections of both the Katy Trail and the Hinkson might be encountered.

MKT Bridge #12 & #13 7-20-2010...Rain Rain Go Away

2010-07-20T15:35:00.006-05:00

Rain Rain Go Away....
Site remediation would still be in progress apart from the the almost 1.5 inches of rain that have fallen over the last few days. The area where Houf Construction needs to be is to the right of the bridge, approximately 6 feet under the water!

The rock from the temporary crossing will be used in the west approach to allow for an ADA trail compliant slope. Therefore, since the material is underwater, the job site operations are shut down temporarily.

The barrier to the East of the bridge is partially open for trail users to use the trail (at their own risk). Please use extreme caution and due care through this section of trail as 3" rock has been added to the rutted areas in preparation for resurfacing and is a very loose for trail surface.

We appreciate your understanding in these last few weeks of the project. We anticipate providing you with a much upgraded, safer bridge and a fresh new surface for the trail segment.

MKT Bridge #12 & #13 7-16-2010

2010-07-16T15:19:00.004-05:00

Site remediation is underway at the site today and therefore the section of trail between Country Woods Estates and Scott Blvd is closed to all trail users till 4:30 today.

We will re-open the trail for weekend use, but please be advised the approach work is still not complete and there is a great deal of rough material at each end of the bridge.

We will close the trail section again on Monday morning from 7:30-4:30 for the remainder of the week for finish work to be performed and subsequent re-grading work to be done between Scott and bridge #12.

The construction road around #12 and #13 are both in the process of being removed, so please use the constructed bridges.

The trail will be open after 4:30 each day at users own risk. Loose surface material and/or construction equipment will be the biggest dangers.

Paquin Park Update

2010-07-15T11:23:00.005-05:00

The fencing, grading and re-seeding has been completed. The fencing was requested by the gardeners to reduce or hopefully eliminate vandalism and the theft of vegetables and fruit from the garden. There had been a long standing problem of produce being stolen right as it became ripe.

The last major item remaining in the project is the replacement or rehabilitation of the entry patio. The surface of the concrete is badly spalled. Several remedy options are being considered. Landscaping also remains to be completed.

MKT Bridge #12 & #13 7-14-2010

2010-07-14T12:01:00.005-05:00

Riders cross Bridge #12 for the Ride with Carl for Sam event this morning.

Though the bridge is open for today's event, the work on approaches for bridge #12 will necessitate re-closing of this trail section, tomorrow, to all trail users. Heavy equipment will be in operation on the trail bed itself and rock trucks will be in continuous use between the trail access point at Scott Blvd & Bridge # 12. The trail will be open after 4:30 each day at users own risk. Loose surface material and/or construction equipment will be the biggest dangers.

Site remediation will take place at the same time as approach work. After both phases of work are completed then the trail section between the parking lot at Scott Blvd and bridge #12 will be re-graded to remove ruts created by construction activities and returned to a finished surface

In the next couple of weeks the job site will be extremely busy, so please avoid area during the working hours. Just to reiterate; the trail will be open after 4:30 each day at users own risk. Loose surface material and or construction equipment will be the biggest dangers.

The parking lot located on the East side of Scott Blvd is still closed, until all construction activities have ceased.

Time till project completion is approximately three weeks, weather permitting.

On weekends trail will be open all day, each day, unless contractor is working.

MKT bridge replacement update July 12, 2010

2010-07-12T15:51:00.003-05:00

The temporary ramps are in place so that trail users can now pass over the bridge. Additional fill material will be brought in to make the slopes more gradual over the next couple of weeks. The contractor has yet to remove the construction road in the creek and rebuild the banks of the creek. Please slow down and move through with caution as there is still construction ongoing.

Rock Quarry Park drive and parking lots CLOSED-Tues 7/13 thru Wed 7/14

2010-07-12T08:37:00.004-05:00

If the weather cooperates the lot and drive at Rock Quarry Park will be closed for asphalt sealing on Tuesday 7/13. The lot will remain closed until around noon Wednesday 7/14.

MKT bridge replacement update July 9, 2010

2010-07-09T14:29:00.002-05:00

Heavy rains this week have kept the access road impassable. The railings have been completed for the bridge. The next step in the process is to build gravel ramps on both sides of the bridge, but gravel trucks need to be able to cross the creek to build the ramp on the north side.

Trail Condition Updates, Thursday, July 8, 2010

2010-07-08T16:11:00.004-05:00

MKT: Tunnels cleared, some rills and surface washing in some trail sections, but overall the trail is in fairly decent shape. The Hinkson Creek did cross over the trail near the intersection of the MKT and the MU Recreation Trail, but the damage was minimal. It appears that the large pipes that were installed early in the spring helped prevent damage.

As of 4:00 pm, there's water over the trail west of Scott Blvd. You could probably ride through it, but you'll have to raise your feet and you'll get wet!

Bear Creek Trail: Usual damage- From Creasy Springs west to old Cosmo Park sled hill there's standing water, sand & silt and exposed base rock. Same conditions exist from east end boardwalk into Garth Nature Area. The trail portion by Northland, Rangeline and under Providence Road is also rough. The area between the boardwalk and bridge is also still in bad shape. Staff can not get trucks to this location to repair as the only access is through the creek.

Hinkson Creek Trail: The section by Rock Quarry Road washed out, otherwise in decent shape.

Neighborhood Parks and Trails
Staff is in the process of inspecting all neighborhood park trails, but if you notice anything in the park near you, we would appreciate it if you would let us know by calling 573-874-7201 and leave a message. Here are known problem areas:

Indian Hills and Rothwell Park has some washouts and rutting in places.

July 8, 2010 update

2010-07-08T14:59:00.002-05:00

Heavy rains yesterday have the creeks flooded.

The access road is completely underwater, prohibiting the contractor from getting gravel to the far side of the creek to create the a ramp up to the bridge. They continue to work on the railings and grouting the trail surface of the concrete approaches.

July 7, 2010 update

2010-07-07T09:20:00.004-05:00

The site is very wet from the ongoing rain we have had over the last several days.

The creek is over the construction road and so the section of trail is impassable.

It's up!

2010-07-02T15:02:00.004-05:00

The replacement for the #12 Bridge on the MKT Trail has been set.

Hopefully the weather will hold and the rest of the work can continue.

Note that the Trail is not open yet. The approaches to the bridge still need to constructed. And there are sections of railing that still need to be installed.

But with good weather the trail could be open in two-three weeks.

MKT Bridge #12 - 6-29-2010

2010-06-29T13:01:00.003-05:00

This last weekend's rains have swollen the Hinkson Creek, yet again. We are waiting for the water level to fall again by mid to late week. If the water does fall below the crossing we will be able to set the last section of bridge. Houf Construction has been unable to cross the creek for the last 3 weeks, due to the flooding and rain. Hopefully our luck will change later this week.

Restroom installation at Philips Park

2010-06-28T09:38:00.003-05:00

A pre-fabricated restroom was installed at Philips Park. The utility hook-ups and finish concrete work will be done by Park staff over the coming weeks.

MKT Bridge #12 - 6-24-2010

2010-06-24T14:12:00.008-05:00

Just watching and waiting....

6-21-2010

6-23-2010

6-24-2010

MKT Bridge #12 - 6-21-2010

2010-06-21T16:23:00.003-05:00

The Hinkson Creek has backed up a further 2 feet at the bridge replacement job site. We do not expect the water level to recede below the construction bypass till at least next week. As mentioned in previous posts, once the water recedes below the bypass, we will have approximately 2 weeks or work till completion.

In the meanwhile before we get started again, please enjoy the site as it is quite peaceful and you can see plenty of wildlife approaching bridge #12 from either East or West.

MKT Bridge #12 - 6-18-2010

2010-06-18T12:48:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately we have not been able to progress this week with the Hinkson Creek looking more like a pond than a creek this week. When the water recedes we will update you as to when the final bridge section will be installed. If any of you are interested the steel section of bridge is being stored on the parking lot at Scott on the East side of the road.

Paquin Park Improvements

2010-06-18T12:28:00.004-05:00

The wet weather slowed the work at the Paquin but it's picking up. The Horticulture crew is doing some shape up and the fencing contractor should be on site next week.