Jordan Park and Rec Commission discusses new park amenities for Beaumont Park and improvements at Lagoon Park.
By Jan Gilmer
The Jordan Park and Recreation Advisory Commission (Park & Rec) met on Sept. 15, 2025. The commission discussed potential amenities for Beaumont Park and the possibility of clearing brush and overgrowth in Lagoon Park.
Beaumont Park Amenities
While building the shelter at Beaumont Park, Public Works identified empty usable space next to the shelter. They suggested Park & Rec consider adding a swing set and gaga pit to fill the roughly 35-by-31-foot space on either side of the shelter.
Staff provided pictures of the site, the construction plans and some options for a gaga ball pit. During the discussion, online options for swing sets were viewed. Commissioner Tilus commented that the disc swing provides a lot of interest and fun for younger children who are a bit older and more independent, while still under a watchful eye.
After discussion, the commissioners decided to recommend that the City Council authorize staff to obtain a bid for a traditional swing set with a sling seat and an infant seat, and a second swing set with a disc seat, with an assumed budget under $10,000.
Lagoon Park Visual Aesthetics
Commissioner Shannon reached out to staff asking if some of the undergrowth, bushes and trees along Sand Creek could be trimmed to make it a more prominent feature of Lagoon Park. She noted the waterfall cannot be seen from the bench along the walkway or elsewhere in the park, the Mini-Met is not visible, and the meandering creek is hidden behind the overgrowth.
Staff contacted the DNR and was advised to provide more specific locations for the desired maintenance. The agency stated that care must be taken with respect to the ordinary high water level mark. However, general maintenance to remove dead or diseased trees, limbs or branches that pose a safety hazard or could damage property can be performed without a permit.
During the discussion, Commissioner Tilus noted that the waterfall doesn’t appear to have an official name. He suggested that naming it could allow the feature to be submitted to Google Maps. Commission Chair Breeggemann said the waterfall has been known to her as “The Falls” since childhood. The Jordan Historical Society may know if it has an official name. Commissioners recognized the waterfall as a valuable community asset and expressed interest in raising awareness of it.
Commissioners felt that thinning the undergrowth and brush along the creek should be placed on a regular maintenance schedule, including checks for buckthorn. In addition, the turf at Lagoon Park needs to be aerated and overseeded to improve curb appeal.
Planner’s Update
City Planner Sahni Moore informed commissioners that the ribbon cutting at Broadway Plaza took place on Sept. 4 and that the roundabouts on Sunset Drive were completed. He mentioned that staff had been contacted about cross-country ski trail locations in the area. Commissioners noted that wood chips could perhaps be placed on the state recreation land and that the Ney Center in Henderson has trails and offers rentals.
Park and Recreation Committee Member Updates
Commission Chair Breeggemann noted there is a Lions meeting on Wednesday and that the Lions were once considering sponsoring a shelter, though that discussion seems to have faded. Staff should reach out to the Lions to see if they are still interested in donating a shelter.
Breeggemann also asked when the street line striping on 190th Street will be fixed, with other commissioners commenting on the confusion the current striping causes. Planner Moore responded to an inquiry about the new industrial development and provided updates on the new outdoor storage development in the I-2 industrial park.
Commissioner Shannon asked whether the property along Aberdeen would be sold for a park or a parking lot.
Commissioner Tilus suggested staff research the use of play structures for the dog park. He proposed using old concrete pipe for dogs to run through, a wooden or dirt bridge for climbing, and piles of rocks. Many of the structures could likely be obtained free or at minimal cost.
The next Park and Recreation Advisory Commission meeting is Monday, November 17, 2025.