A $690,000 improvement project planned for Whirlpool Centennial Park in St. Joseph has moved another step forward. During a Monday meeting, St. Joseph City Commissioners approved a request for proposals, agreeing to seek bids for the work. Public Works Director Greg Grothous said the city has been approved for a state grant of $345,000 for upgrades at the site with the Whirlpool Compass Fountain. He said the city got input from residents on what they would like to see there, and the top responses were restrooms and shade.
“This project accomplishes both of those with the restroom and changing room facility and adding some shade structures and additional seating,” Grothous said.
Grothous said the restroom building will also include a pumphouse, which will be a much better space for the equipment and supplies. He added foot washes will be installed as well, hopefully reducing the amount of sand that gets down into the equipment. Commissioners had some questions about costs, but approved moving the project ahead as there will still be other steps. The plan now goes out for state approval.
