Making progress on a project that’s set to enhance the northern area of the city, West Bountiful reviewed concepts for the Charnell Pocket Park renovation during a city council meeting on May 6.

Known also as Lou Child’s Park as well as Child’s Park, the city council reviewed three concepts created by blū Line Designs. Each provided an access/loop pathway to the playground while offering new visions of what the play area would look like. Of those presented, Concept B – offering an enlarged playground and new equipment – was recognized as the favorite, according to City Administrator Duane Huffman. 

“I think folks just like the idea of having a larger play area that’s utilized a little bit better than the play area that is there now,” said Huffman. “They like the idea of screening the property to the east of there a little bit with some trees, maybe some better fencing. Just kind of a refresh and update of the park.”

Next steps for the city include refining the preferred concept design and receiving bids. Huffman says that alterations will include the addition of more sidewalks and trees.

The city’s current concerns regarding Charnell Pocket Park include the state of the playground, which they’ve identified as operable but outdated and the decay of a large willow tree on the property. A 30 foot sewer easement runs along the front of the property as well, according to an agenda from the city council's meeting on May 6.

Less than half an acre in size, the park resides on 2340 North. It first became a part of West Bountiful in 1984 as part of a planned unit development and was dedicated in 1990, according to the May 6 agenda. Currently, it includes the play area as well as two picnic tables. 

Concept discussions for Charnell Pocket Park come seven months after the city’s completion of a new playground at West Bountiful City Park. As of May 13, current projects in the area include construction on 660 West as well as 1100 North.