By Jan Gilmer
The Jordan Park and Recreation Advisory Committee (Park & Rec) convened on Tuesday, January 21. As part of new business, the committee considered suggestions from Jordan City staff for potential improvements and new activity opportunities.
Portable Refrigerated Ice Rink
The committee has considered improvements to the existing ice rinks in the past. With the condition of the rink boards at the Mini Met parking lot in rough shape and the warmer weather experienced in the 2023/2024 season, City Public Works faced challenges in keeping the ice rinks operational. While an overhead shelter was previously considered, the cost of even a minimal structure far exceeded its value. Given the availability of the rink at Lagoon Park and skating on the Mill Pond, the idea of an overhead shelter was tabled.
City staff introduced the committee to the concept of a portable refrigerated ice rink. While this option does not include rink boards, it does feature refrigerated panels that help maintain stable ice conditions. This would provide residents with a smooth sheet of ice for skating, even in warmer temperatures. Discussion was favorable toward decreasing the size of the ice rink at the Mini Met and installing the portable refrigerated ice rink to promote a family-oriented skating area that accommodates a range of skill levels, even in milder winter weather.
Options for the portable refrigerated ice rink include renting the refrigerated panels or purchasing them—either new or refurbished. The committee expressed interest in gathering additional information and potentially testing this as a new family-friendly option in the future. City staff will research available options and costs for the committee to review.
Pump Track Option
In 2023, the committee and City Council received a request for a new skate park. Members considered rebuilding or relocating the existing skate park, currently in the Mini Met parking lot. While they were open to some level of change, they ultimately decided to put the request on hold due to the multiple modifications planned for the Highway 169/282 interchange and other city park priorities.
At the January 21 meeting, city staff introduced the idea of a pump track, a smaller track designed for bikes, scooters, and skateboards where momentum is generated manually rather than by pushing off the ground. Staff presented modular, pre-cast concrete, and asphalt track configurations, along with insights from the City of Plymouth, which installed a pump track in 2016.
The committee was very receptive to the concept and suggested that adding a pump track to the existing skate park could encourage skill development and attract multiple age groups. They requested additional information on cost estimates, size, and potential locations.
Historic Log Cabin
City resident and Jordan Historical Society member Jeff Will addressed the committee regarding the historic Jordan log cabin. He believes that the City owns the cabin, the Park and Recreation department is responsible for its maintenance, and the Historical Society manages its contents.
Mr. Will was approached with an offer to house an old fire reel currently stored by City Maintenance. He believes the fire reel would be a valuable addition to the log cabin property but, due to its size and wooden construction, it would need to be enclosed and protected.
Additionally, Mr. Will suggested sprucing up the log cabin area to make it a more prominent attraction. The committee recommended that he collaborate with City Maintenance to explore potential cost estimates, solutions for enclosing the fire reel, and general site improvements. City Council Member Jeremy Goebel suggested seeking funding sources, such as the Haybaker Fund, to support these enhancements.
Currently, the Historical Society posts event information on its Facebook page. The committee suggested also sharing these events on the City’s new events website.
Planner Updates
City staff provided updates on ongoing projects:
Pauly Park Restroom Facility – The plumbing permit passed inspection. The facility is expected to open in spring 2025.
Pekarna Park – The park gazebo requires a new roof.
Beaumont Bluffs – A shelter and new basketball court are expected to be ready by spring 2025.
Grassman Park – There is ongoing discussion about adding another shelter.
Council Member Updates
Former Xcel Building Acquisition – The city has closed on this property and plans to pave the north alley to address environmental concerns. Long-term lease options are being considered for adjacent businesses.
South House – The property has completed legal proceedings and is scheduled for demolition in early February.
Park and Recreation Committee Member Updates
Committee member Donna Breeggemann raised concerns about the curve on the east side of Bridle Creek, where curb and gutter are present. Due to street parking along the curb, traffic passage is very tight. Other committee members noted that they had not experienced issues but agreed to pay closer attention to traffic flow in the area.
