The Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation budget is proposed to increase 9 percent for 2019, with much of the jump in the $3.5 million budget tied to upkeep of Monon Boulevard, which is currently under construction.
The Carmel Redevelopment Commission is spearheading the $20 million-plus project between the Arts & Design District and Midtown area, which includes widening the Monon Trail, dedicated bike lanes, new one-way streets and construction of a public plaza near the new Sun King Distillery.
“It’s creating in that center area next to the Monon an urban park space,” CCPR Chief Operating Officer Michael Klitzing said.
Klitzing said the project is projected to be complete in July 2019, at which time CCPR is expecting to maintain it as it does the other trails in Carmel.
“As it’s getting closer to coming online, the discussion was who is in the best position to maintain it moving forward,” Klitzing said. “Since it is a park space, the city requested we submit within our budget a proposal for taking over the maintenance.”
The Monon Boulevard project includes installation of a new playground, splash pad area, outdoor game tables, public art and more. The Monon Plaza area under construction just south of the new Sun King Distillery is designed to host events, such as concerts or outdoor movies, that are currently held elsewhere in town.
Increases in CCPR’s 2019 budget tied to Monon Boulevard include:
- $100,735 for a new full-time position and part-time maintenance for Monon Boulevard (also includes merit increases for other employees)
- $49,200 for grounds maintenance at Monon Boulevard
- $46,000 for a truck and utility task vehicle for Monon Boulevard
- $21,000 for utilities at Monon Boulevard and a new Monon trailhead in Central Park