ACTION REQUESTED:
Title
Communication from the City Manager with a Request to Allow a Volunteer Committee to Pursue Creation of RIVER'S EDGE PARK, including a Fenced DOG PARK, along the River Front. (1st District)
Body
BACKGROUND: At its January 15, 2015 meeting, the Downtown Advisory Commission (DAC) discussed and endorsed an idea to create "River's Edge Park," a multi-function park, including a fenced dog park, on land bordered by the river, Michel East parking lot and railroad tracks.
An aerial photograph of the identified area is attached. The property does not have any present, active uses. It is also not owned by the City of Peoria. The area identified in red is privately owned by Archer Daniels Midland (ADM). The area identified in blue is Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) right-of-way associated with the Bob Michel Bridge. City staff has contacted both parties seeking permission to either acquire or use the property. IDOT has granted permission for use contingent upon the City receiving similar permission from ADM. ADM, through their local attorney, has agreed to subdivide parcel 18-17-402-021 and donate the land shaded in red on the attached map to the City. ADM has further agreed to pay the associated costs of preparing a survey and appraisal. The City would only incur the minimal cost of recording the deed.
The park concept as introduced to the DAC would be for a multi-use park that would include a significant portion dedicated to a fenced, off-leash dog park. A conceptual rendering is attached. The Peoria Humane Society has agreed to be a principal donor and to organize and manage the fundraising effort. The park would serve as an amenity to those living downtown as well as an attraction that might bring more people to the riverfront.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The planning and construction of the project will be completely covered by donations. The City may need to adjust its contract with the Peoria Park District...
Click here for full text