Aldermen look to improve parks, add public spaces

In its work session Friday afternoon, aldermen heard a presentation regarding a plan from the city's park's department to add new restrooms and public spaces to parks across Starkville.

The three parks that would potentially receive new facilities are Moncrief Park, J. L. King Park and Patriot's Park.

Bob Luke of Meridian-based architecture firm LPK showed aldermen initial concepts for the improvements, which would feature stainless steel toilets and sinks similar to those used in penal systems due to their "virtually indestructible" quality.

Luke said all the restrooms would have diaper-changing stations and water-refill stations, noting that water foundations are no longer the standard.

Shade was also an important aspect of the buildings, Luke said, and they were being designed to protect visitors from the sun as much as possible.

From an aesthetic perspective, Luke said the designs allowed space on the walls for a public mural, something he believes adds a sense of quality to city improvements.

"We are really big believers in public art," Luke said. "And who should lead public art? No one should lead it more than the city should."

Luke added the buildings would have graffiti-resistant coatings and a the material will be capable of being changed if the city decides to change a mural in the future.

Leaving a small footprint on the city's budget was another design feature incorporated into the proposed buildings. Luke said he recommended automated flushing toilets and LED