Alton, Mo. – People in Alton gathered together on Monday, July 6, to discuss the pocket park. They wanted to know what others thought was necessary, what would look good, what would help the community, and what would be cost-efficient. They came up with many ideas, leading in the same direction. Green areas are good. Relaxing and peaceful areas are necessary. They ended the meeting by calling the pocket park the ‘City’s Front Porch.’
Setting Up
People from all walks of life attended this meeting. Although the city council was invited to come and share their thought, only one member came, Hannah, who led the meeting.
Several pictures of varying designs of small parks were on display. Attendees were told to mark what they liked or disliked about them.
No
Rather forcefully, people do not want only concrete, with perhaps a pavilion in the middle. Actually, the less concrete, the better. Distasteful art decorations or statues were not wanted.
Good
Grass or even mulch was good. Although playground equipment was not desired, games specific to the area were recommended, such as cornhole. Benches and tables for sitting in the shade were important. And a stage of some sort for events like the Walnut Festival or the Community Potluck was recommended.
Lights make the park more inviting. Will a public bathroom be needed? Bright, inviting colors everywhere are needed to make people want to go there. They want it to have multiple uses for different meetings.
Maitenance
One concern of the city council was maintenance. They feel their park workers are overworked now and need something simple to keep clean, hence concrete. Several city members believe we need a park board to ensure park funding is used appropriately.
Next Meeting
These ideas and more will be brought up at the City Council meeting on Monday, July 13, at 5:30 pm in Alton. The public is invited to come share their thoughts.
