2023.06.14 Woodfin PGAC Meeting

Woodfin PGAC Meeting Recap: Streamlining Committees and Park Project Updates (June 14, 2023)

The Woodfin Parks and Greenway Advisory Committee (PGAC) held its regular meeting on June 14, 2023, focusing primarily on restructuring internal committees and providing updates on several key park and greenway projects impacting the Woodfin community. The meeting, attended by existing committee members and welcoming new member David Clark (who will join in August), aimed to improve efficiency and better support ongoing initiatives.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on a proposal to revamp the committee's internal structure. Recognizing that some existing subcommittees had become less active, the PGAC voted to dissolve the "Project Management and Park Operations" and "Communications and Events" committees. In their place, two new, more focused committees will be established: the Volunteer Group Management Committee and the WAVE (Woodfin Active Venue & Event) Management Committee. The Volunteer Group Management committee, comprised of Gerald, Eric, and Ann, will focus on connecting volunteers with opportunities within Woodfin’s parks and greenways, potentially including a park ambassador program. The WAVE Management committee, featuring Dave, Chris, and Wayne, will support the existing WAVE Task Force in developing policies for wave usage and event management. Coral was also formally designated as chair, ensuring compliance with open meeting laws.

Beyond committee restructuring, the PGAC received valuable updates on several ongoing projects that will directly impact residents. Progress continues at Silver Line Park, with staff working on requests for proposals (RFPs) to design restroom facilities, a pickleball area, and landscaping. Demolition is underway at Riverside Park/Taylor’s Wave, including asbestos removal, paving the way for future improvements. A key discussion involved coordination with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding the replacement of the Craggy Bridge, which will involve construction within park boundaries. Staff emphasized their commitment to working closely with DOT to minimize disruption and ensure a smooth construction process for residents. Finally, the committee learned that the Greenway project is now being handled in two phases by DOT – Riverside Drive and Beaverdam Creek – with staff actively pursuing funding for a comprehensive bike/pedestrian plan.

The meeting concluded with the cancellation of the July PGAC meeting, allowing committee members to dedicate their efforts towards planning and coordinating activities within the newly formed subcommittees. The WAVE Task Force is also making headway, with a draft policy on wave usage and event management expected to be presented to the PGAC in October.

What this means for Woodfin residents: The changes to the PGAC structure aim to streamline decision-making and improve responsiveness to community needs. Updates on park projects like Silver Line Park, Riverside Park/Taylor’s Wave, and the Greenway project demonstrate ongoing investment in Woodfin's recreational spaces. Residents can expect further engagement as these projects progress, and the WAVE Task Force develops policies to ensure fair and enjoyable use of Woodfin's wave facilities. Stay tuned for updates on the comprehensive bike/pedestrian plan, which promises to enhance connectivity and accessibility throughout Woodfin.

Key Action Items Moving Forward:

• Staff will continue working on RFPs for Silver Line Park improvements.
• Close coordination with DOT regarding the Craggy Bridge replacement is ongoing.
• Adrian and Mark will coordinate a tour of the WAVE for PGAC members.
• The Volunteer Group Management Committee will schedule its first meeting to plan initial activities.
• Staff members Eric and Chris will draft a preliminary policy document for the WAVE Task Force.