Bloomington, Ind. ~ Bloomington Parks and Recreation has presented a plan outlining how the department could invest up to $17 million in potential grant and bond funding to address deferred maintenance in city parks, trails and sports facilities.

Parks and Recreation Director Tim Street presented the 2026 Investment Priorities Plan at a special meeting of the Board of Park Commissioners on Sept. 28. The plan lists 15 projects and initiatives tied to the department's goal of "taking care of what we have," one of four priorities in its 2026–2030 Master Plan.

Major proposed investments include maintenance and upgrades at Bryan Park Pool and Winslow Sports Park, along with repairs to asphalt parking lots and trails and the conversion of tennis courts to pickleball courts.

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The plan also considers ways to generate revenue for long-term maintenance without relying on grants or bonds. Options include selling the city-owned property at 349 S. Walnut St., which is currently leased by The Project School, or raising its rent to reflect current market value. The department is also considering hiring an outside firm to sell naming rights and sponsorships for sports facilities, with proceeds supporting ongoing maintenance.

According to the department, the plan draws on facility assessments, the master-planning process, community survey results, stakeholder input and staff evaluations of existing facilities and infrastructure.

The projects represent priorities for investment as funding becomes available, but their timing and implementation will depend on funding, project readiness, construction schedules and other factors, the department said.

Community members can review the plan and submit feedback through bton.in/H3park. Comments will be accepted through Oct. 18, 2026.

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