As part of the engagement for the Stagecoach neighborhood park, many residents mentioned the lack of a traditional playground within the Southbridge neighborhood. Given the existing and extensive oak savannah on the stagecoach property as well as the high speeds of the adjacent road, this location was not suitable for a play structure. Staff noticed the playground located within the town home development and approached the home owners association (HOA) regarding their interest in selling the property to the city. The HOA is interested in selling the land, and an appraisal of the property was done in August 2020 which valued the land at $225,000. The recent application for Core Crossings, a 61-unit apartment building located across from the proposed park, as well as the prospect of future phases of Trio Apartments to the east will increase the residential population here and the need for a playground. 

Staff would like feedback on the proposed purchase of the park at Riverside Grove.