The new park that will provide a host of activities for Mill Creek area residents will be funded by mitigation fees and state dollars.
The 5.2 acre parcel on which the park will be built was purchased by the city in April of 2002 for $1.8 million.
The total cost of park development is estimated at $2.1 million, said Lynn Devoir, recreation supervisor for the city.
That price tag will be covered by $1 million in state funds with the remainder covered by mitigation fees paid to the city by developers of projects surrounding the Trillium Park site, Devoir said. Mitigation fees are charged to developers when they apply for permits.
The philosophy behind mitigation fees is that those building new developments should shoulder the responsibility of impacts, such as the need for new parks, roads and schools to accommodate additional residents.
The $1 million in state funding was freed up by efforts of now-retired Sen. Jeanine Long, R-Mill Creek, and is contingent on the project being initiated in 2002 and completed by the end of the biennium 2003.
The city will rent out the play field to recoup some of the costs of park maintenance, Devoir said.
Park amenities will include a baseball field with artificial turf that can be used year-round.
Turf does not require maintenance like real grass, and because of that it “cuts down on maintenance costs,” Devoir said.
“It’s better, I think, for the environment too because it cuts down on fertilizing,” Devoir said.
Other Trillium Park amenities:
• a modified soccer field overlaid onto the baseball field that is 135 feet by 225 feet
• a 10,000 square foot skate park, plans for which are still awaiting recommendations from a consultant, who will consult Mill Creek youth on their preferences
• an area with a restroom, concession stand and press box
• Lights for nighttime play
• on-site parking for 33 cars
• a storage shed
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