Taku Lake Park South Gateway Improvements 2020
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Anchorage Parks and Recreation is finalizing planning and design for improvements at Taku Lake Park. Improvements are scheduled for 2020 and will focus on the South Gateway area.
Proposed improvements include skatepark upgrades, a new inclusive playground, picnic areas, circulation improvements, safety upgrades and lighting, as well as new amenities.
PROJECT BACKGROUND
In 2014, the playground at Taku Lake Park was destroyed by arson. Since that time, the area has experienced a decline in use and an increase in negative activity.
In 2016, the Parks and Recreation Department began a master planning effort to address issues and identify community priorities for the future.
In 2018, the Taku Lake Park Master Plan was approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Planning and Zoning Commission, paving the way for fundraising and investment in the park.
In 2019, the Parks and Recreation Department began planning, design, and fundraising for improvements to the South Gateway at Taku Lake Park. Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2020, with the donation of a
FitLot Adult Exercise equipment system through AARP, and when the project
reaches full funding in 2020, the remainder of the project is slotted to be
constructed by the fall of 2021.
PROJECT FUNDING
Over the past few years the members of the Anchorage Community have supported the different phases of this project through voting for bonds in 2016, 2018 and 2020. In addition to bond funds, Anchorage Park Foundation has leveraged private donations for inclusive play, and also awarded local business owners and community advocates with a Challenge Grant in 2019. Finally, the project was awarded funding through the Tony Hawk Foundation Skate Park Grant, which further helps leverage support for this project. Currently, the project is funded up to $1,530,000, with additional funds needed to meet the current cost estimate for the project.
2016 Park Bond | | $400,000 |
2016 Park Bond | | $250,000.00 |
2020 Park Bond | | $500,000.00 |
APF | | $350,000.00 |
Challenge Grant - APF Match | | $20,000.00 |
Challenge Grant- Tony Hawk | | $10,000.00
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