West Park is officially open! Construction began this past spring that resulted in the summer closure of the park and the relocation of the Civic Band. The fencing along Seventh and Chapin Streets will come down the week of Nov. 15, and a grand opening celebration will take place in the spring of 2011 when the weather is warmer.

The focus of the project was stormwater management and improving water quality. Additionally, the site now features a series of wetlands and bioswales as well as the installation of underground structures to capture and filter stormwater from Allen Creek.

New park amenities include a boardwalk over a wetland water feature, improved access from Huron Street, a new basketball court relocated out of the floodway, parking lot renovations, reconstruction of the open play field, a plaza and low retaining walls to provide seating in front of the band shell, and new pathways through the park. Two sculptures, designed by local artist Traven Pelletier, in cooperation with the Ann Arbor Public Art Commission, sit on the ends of the retaining wall, adding a whimsical flair to the seating area.

This winter, the house adjacent to the park on Chapin Street (to the south of the entry drive) will be demolished, and this land will be incorporated into the park to improve access and open views. There will be some remaining work in the spring, including additional landscaping and stormwater work, as well as renovation of the tennis courts.

The city is appreciative of the West Park neighbors for their patience with the inconveniences this project may have caused. The enhanced features of the site will undoubtedly be enjoyed by all.

The project was funded through the Michigan State Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and the Park Maintenance and Capital Improvements Millage, in cooperation with the Office of the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner.