Spring Valley approves Mini Park construction plan with concession stand, restrooms

The Spring Valley City Council on Monday may have only passed the resolution, but it also laid the cornerstone for a revitalization that will extend far, far beyond that marker.

The council unanimously backed the resolution to accept a proposal to have a concession stand and restroom built in the downtown Mini Park, the structure to be built by low bidder Pinter General Contracting of Spring Valley. That company’s work will begin as soon as ground can be broken with the expectation that it will be finished and open by the time Spring Valley Summer Fest rolls around.

The new concrete-block building, which measures 25-by-32 feet and 18 feet at the roof’s peak, per the original renderings by Chamlin and Associates approved last September, comes at a cost of $243,000.

That sum, the mayor said, has accumulated over the last two years from TIF funds and grants.

When finished, it will make the Mini Park a hub around which the city’s many downtown activities – markets, festivals and other community events – can rotate.

“This construction will transform an underutilized area into a vibrant space, enhancing the overall aesthetics and atmosphere of the venue,” Spring Valley Mayor Melanie Malooley Thompson said. “It will enhance the visitor experience by offering increased convenience, boosting foot traffic and creating opportunities for more events.

“It will make the venues more accessible and enjoyable for families, event attendees and local gatherings, benefiting the community … We are very excited for the possibilities.”

Thompson stressed that the construction is only a small part of a broader effort to revitalize the downtown area and the community as a whole, an addition to initiatives like music events, flag installations, facade grants, additional parking, the demolition of blighted homes and the development of a community center.

In other action, the council:

Granted a special event application from Grow Spring Valley to hold its Friday Night Market on July 18, during the Summer Fest.

Approved a request by Tracy Lord for a 15-minute parking space at 117 W. St. Paul Street.