Title
Resolution in support of the Carolyn and Maurice LeBauer City Park
Body
Department: Executive
Council District: 3
Public Hearing: n/a
Advertising Date/By: n/a
Contact 1 and Phone: Interim City Manager Chris Wilson, Ext. 2002
Contact 2 and Phone: Interim Parks and Recreation Director Wade Walcutt, Ext. 2964
PURPOSE:
Council's approval is requested to pass the attached resolution that will accept the gift from the estate of Carolyn W. LeBauer to build a new park on City property for the City. Carolyn Weill LeBauer bequeathed to the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro ("CFGG") the sum of $10 million for the development of an "outstanding public park" to be named the Carolyn and Maurice LeBauer Park.
BACKGROUND:
This item was introduced to Council at the March 13, 2014 Work Session. The City, through its Parks & Recreation Department, and CFGG have been working on the development of a new city park to be fully funded by the estate of Carolyn W. LeBauer and to be established in accordance with the bequest of Carolyn W. LeBauer to CFGG. The identified site consists of approximately 3.7 acres in downtown Greensboro, on North Davie Street, which includes the existing Festival Park and the former site of the YWCA building in downtown Greensboro for the park envisioned by Carolyn W. LeBauer.
CFGG, with the advice and support of the Parks & Recreation Department, has undertaken the assessment of community needs and desires and has also developed an assessment of best-practice strategies to develop a sustainable city park that will fulfill the wishes of Carolyn LeBauer and meet the needs of residents. This collaboration has resulted in a conceptual master plan and programming strategy for the park. In order to appropriately honor the bequest from Carolyn Weil LeBauer, and to carry forward the conceptual master plan and programming strategy, the park's programming will drive the design of the park. This design will include a range of flexible, programmable spaces for a variety of programs, activities, and attractions throughout the year. This will also include exceptional recreational equipment and activities for all residents, as well as educational opportunities, public art, all contained within an attractive, well-landscaped setting. The programming for the park will create a framework for revenue generation that provides for long-term maintenance and sustainability.
CFGG is also committed to a minimum goal of 20% MWBE participation during construction of the park, and CFGG is committed also to providing opportunities to local firms in design and construction.
BUDGET IMPACT:
No new budget impacts are planned at this time. Operating expenditures will not be solidified until design is completed. Staff will work with CFGG to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for construction of the park. Funding for the design of the park is captured with the Carolyn Weill LeBauer bequest.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
The Parks and Recreation Department request and recommends City Council approval of the attached resolution that accepts the gift from the estate of Carolyn W. LeBauer to build a new park for the City of Greensboro on the site described above and directs the City Manager and staff, working with the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, to develop and execute a MOU for construction of the park.