Work will begin Monday, Nov. 4, to remove the chain link fence around the Old City Park pond. This work will be done in sections, and temporary panels will be put in place until the project is completed. The new fence will be a three-tier split rail with mesh backing for safety.
The fence removal is expected to be completed in one to two weeks, and Taylor Fence from Grand Junction will install the new fence beginning Nov. 18. The project is expected to be completed by the end of November.
The total project will include fence replacement, regrading and stabilization of the pond banks, removal of some non-native plant species, and the addition of a walking path and benches. City Parks staff is working closely on this project with the Utah Division of Natural Resources (DNR), along with input from interested community members, to ensure minimal impact to the pond’s wildlife.
The project will cost $30,500, which is funded by a $15,000 Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant, $8,000 in city matching funds, and a $7,500 city in-kind wage match.
“We appreciate DNR’s support with this project,” said Parks, Recreation and Trails Director Brianna Bowker. “We understand the OCP pond has a unique ecology, which allows certain species to thrive, and we will do our best to continue to foster that. The new fencing, path and benches will allow for better viewing opportunities for our community. We appreciate he community's feedback and are excited to continue to be moving forward with these improvements.”