Aquatic Center Parking Lot Improvements Move Forward

At its meeting Wednesday evening, the Summit Common Council unanimously approved a bond ordinance that will appropriate $500,000 for the improvement of the Family Aquatic Center parking lot.

Councilman Al Dill said the work, which he called long overdue, will include new curbing, new asphalt and the reconfiguration of the center's entrance. The time to do the project is now, Dill explained, as the neighboring Jefferson Primary Center will also be undertaking a construction project.

Councilman Thomas Getzendanner called the plans for the improvements, made in conjunction with the Board of Education, "well-thought-out" and agreed they were long overdue. Plans will also address storm water drainage, which is expected to extend the life of the parking lot. Getzendanner asked if $500,000 represents the entire cost of the project or the City of Summit's portion of the cost to be shared with the Board of Ed. City Engineer Aaron Schrager said the $500,000 covers the parking lot itself and some portions of the driveway realignment. A large portion of the driveway realignment will be covered by the Board of Ed, Schrager noted, and added that as the plan moves forward they would be better able to tell which part will be paid for by whom.  

Council President Richard Madden asked Schrager if he knew when the parking lot was last paved and how long this new parking lot could be expected to last. Schrager said he didn't know exactly when it was last paved, but estimated it to be at least 20 years ago. He said the Department of Public Works made some repairs about five years ago but those only served as a "band-aid." He added that with proper maintenance and the improved drainage, the parking lot could be expected to last at least 20 years.

Councilman Dave Bomgaars pointed out that the improvements had been included in the capital budget approved in May. Councilman Robert Rubino asked if there were any structural changes that would be made that the Council wasn't already aware of. Schrager said the existing layout will stay the same though there is a proposed island that will include trees. He said bike racks will also be included and the wider driveway will make it safer and more accessible for cyclists.