In November 2016, Salt Lake County voters will have the opportunity to approve the Parks & Recreation Bond, which will authorize the county to issue $90 million in bonds to build new parks, trails, recreational amenities and a recreation center, as well as renovate and improve existing facilities. The Parks & Recreation Bond will provide $59 million to build 11 new projects in Salt Lake County, and $31 million for maintenance and improvement funding for existing projects. Each project fills current and future recreational needs of the citizens, based on the 2015 Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation 2015 Master Plan.
Projects Proposed
Two of the projects proposed are located along the Jordan River Parkway:
PIONEER CROSSING PARK
$3,000,000
(West Valley City) Natural open space, trails, boardwalks, picnic areas, historical education areas, natural amphitheater, restrooms, small group pavilion, urban camping area, and canoe launch. Will be divided into eight programmatic spaces: North Natural Trail Area, Oxbow Trailhead Connection, Urban Campground, North Parking, Group Picnic Area, Art/Cultural Garden, South Parking, South Natural Area and Trails.
JORDAN RIVER WATER TRAIL
$2,126,493
(Salt Lake County) A series of formal boat access points at strategic locations throughout Salt Lake County’s section of the Jordan River, beginning the implementation of the Jordan River Water Trail. This will work to improve the current conditions along the river for recreational boaters, legitimize the user-created access points, and create new access points that are safer and more functional for paddlers.
Tax Impact of Proposition A
Proposition A builds upon the recently reauthorized Zoo, Arts and Parks (ZAP) tax, passed by 77% of voters in November 2014. ZAP provides sustainable operational funding for parks and recreation. In 2006, voters approved the second iteration of ZAP, and Proposition A is a continuation of the use of that funding. For a continued $18.18 per year (based on a $295,000 home), residents will receive $90 million of parks and recreation projects.
Public Meetings
Salt Lake County will hold a series of public meetings before general election day, November 8, 2016, to discuss Proposition A, the Parks and Recreation Bond. Residents can speak with county officials about how the bond monies will be used and the impact the bond will have on their property taxes. See a full list of Public Meetings
