Drainage improvements and future upgrades at Froman Park were the focus of an extended discussion during Monday afternoon's Wabash County Commissioners meeting.
Jaleigh Peterson of the Wabash County Lions Club updated commissioners on the club's park improvement project, explaining plans to install drainage tile were abandoned after discovering underground oil lines near the proposed route.
Instead, county officials and the Lions Club are considering reshaping the existing roadway and adding drainage ditches to direct stormwater away from the park without disturbing the oil infrastructure. Commissioner Rob Dean said creating a dead-end road with a turnaround would reduce erosion, simplify maintenance and discourage vehicles from driving through the park.
Peterson also discussed long-term plans for the park, including a disc golf course and a permaculture demonstration area. She said the Lions Club has already received a $15,000 private donation and is exploring future grant opportunities through the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Committee that could help fund additional improvements aimed at enhancing quality of life in the community.
Commissioners voted to have Dean and Lions Club representatives meet to develop a final drainage plan before work begins.
The board also approved moving forward with the installation of up to three dusk-to-dawn LED lights at the park. Dean said the lights are intended to help deter vandalism, with estimated operating costs of about $20 per light per month. Final locations will be determined after the drainage plan is completed.
