Improvements coming for 2 Carmel parks

CARMEL, Ind. (WISH) - Carmel can look forward to more improvements at two of its parks. The Board of Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation approved the changes at its Tuesday night meeting.

Michael Klitzing, the assistant director of the parks department, told 24-Hour News 8 an investment of $417,000 will be made in Founders Park at 126th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway.

“Since this park was originally a quarry,” Klitzing said in an email, “we have experienced issues with rocks working their way up to the playing surface of the two existing rugby/lacrosse fields.”

To correct that, 14 inches of existing soil will be removed. A new drainage system will be installed and will be covered by new top soil.

“An irrigation system will also be installed to maximize the use of the fields,” Klitzing said.

The project also calls for installation of structures to provide more shade on the park’s popular playground. Construction should be finished by summer. The athletic fields could be ready for play in the fall.

The Parks Board also approved 12 cabanas for The Waterpark in Carmel’s Central Park.

ONLINE EXTRA | Click here to see a rendering of the cabanas

Klitzing said they “will be available for day rentals by families and small groups. Each cabana will accommodate 8-12 people and include lounge chairs, a private locker to secure items, and cooler.”  The low bid on that project was $531,000. Construction should be finished before Memorial Day.

Klitzing also reported improvements in parking at Central Park. The gravel surface in the overflow lot will be replaced by pavement. That will create 114 spaces. This work should also be complete before Memorial Day.