Title
Sweetwater Branch/Paynes Prairie Sheetflow Restoration Project (B)
A presentation will be made of 30% design plans for the Public Use Facilities at the Paynes Prairie Sheetflow Restoration Project in accordance with Vertical Capital Projects procedure. A proposal to explore the feasibility of privatization of the operation of the public use facilities will be discussed.
Explanation
The Sweetwater Branch/Paynes Prairie Sheetflow Restoration project is currently in the design phase. This project will provide substantial benefits in improving water quality, restoring wetlands and meeting the City's (GRU and stormwater utility) regulatory requirements. The project plan also includes a public access component that will provide opportunities for passive recreation including hiking, bird watching and nature photography. Initial construction will include Phase I public use improvements that will include; parking, restroom/entrance, trails, boardwalks and interpretive signage. Architectural plans are also being developed for future public use facilities that will include a security residence, solar viewing tower and visitor center.
Two neighborhood workshops have been held to present conceptual and preliminary plans to neighboring property owners and to seek comments. The comments received have been overwhelmingly supportive. One additional neighborhood workshop will take place to present plans to neighboring property owners.
Staff proposes to investigate the possibility of privatizing the operation and maintenance of the public use facilities. It may be possible to operate the park in a manner similar to the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens model. Staff proposes to issue a Request for Letters of Interest from parties potentially interested in operating the wetland park. If privatization is determined to be feasible, the respondents may be invited to join the design team and help finalize the design of the public use facilities.
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