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Michele Randall: How we’ve enhanced parks and connected trails

Mayor says G.O. Bond has enabled St. George to make improvements without imposing property tax increases

(Michele Randall) St. George Mayor Michele Randall.

At the City of St. George, we have long prioritized the enhancement of community spaces to foster well-being, connectivity and quality of life for our residents. A critical component of this vision is the voter-approved Trails, Parks and Recreation General Obligation Bond (G.O. Bond), a strategic initiative that has set the stage for transformative development across the city.

This bond, famously passed in 2023 with 63 percent voter approval, shows how much our residents value quality of life. As an elected official, I see this as a mandate – and we intend to execute the G.O. Bond well beyond expectations.

The G.O. Bond was originally approved by the voters in 1996, to address the growing needs of St. George’s population, focusing on improving infrastructure related to outdoor recreation and community spaces. The 2023 bond’s primary objectives include enhancing trails, upgrading parks and renovating crucial recreational facilities to support community engagement and public health.

The bond serves as a financial backbone, enabling the City of St. George to undertake significant projects without imposing property tax increases. The structure of the G.O. Bond ensures that resources are directed efficiently, maximizing the community’s return on investment.

Leveraging approximately $29 million, the bond is structured to fund a wide array of projects, addressing everything from trail connectivity to park enhancements. Strategic partnerships and additional funding from Washington County, Park Impact Funds and RAP Tax bolster the impact of the bond – getting the most out of our sacred taxpayer funds.

Several signature projects underscore the objectives of the G.O. Bond, each carefully designed to meet specific community needs.

Trails

Our breathtaking landscapes are complemented by an expanding trail network designed to promote outdoor activity and connectivity. The bond has enabled the construction of new paths that link neighborhoods and parks, enhancing accessibility and encouraging non-motorized transportation. Existing trails are receiving enhancements, including improved surfaces and signage, catering to both recreational users and daily commuters.

The following trails have been added or enhanced since the beginning of 2024: Black Hills Trail, Pioneer Park Interpretive Trail, Halfway Wash Trail extension, Rim Rock Trail and Airport Parkway Trail. We also created the Virgin River North Trail Pedestrian Bridge at Rim Rock Wash.

Parks

Recognizing parks as vital spaces for leisure and community interaction, the G.O. Bond directs resources toward new parks and the refurbishment of existing parks. We opened the fantastic new Fossil Falls Park in 2024 and have replaced playgrounds Christensen Park, Middleton Park, Desert Vista Park, Royal Oaks Park, Springs Park and Mathis Park. We also replaced the pavilions at J.C. Snow Park.

We made improvements to Vernon Worthen Park – adding a stage and new gazebo – as well as made significant upgrades to the Fields at Little Valley, including better lighting on the soccer fields and a new skate park.

On a more solemn note, the recently completed Tonaquint Park Cemetery expansion added a columbarium and increased capacity. It’s beautiful when lit up at night.

Recreation facilities

The aging Dixie Sunbowl is undergoing a significant renovation. We want to accomplish this while retaining its historic essence. Here are some features:

  • Increased Capacity: The seating will expand to accommodate about 7,300 people, increasing by more than 1,000 seats. This expansion will enable larger gatherings while enhancing safety and the attendee experience.
  • Improved Viewing and Surface: By reducing the rodeo area size, the stands will shift closer, improving sightlines and the overall spectator experience. This alteration will also streamline event transitions and animal wrangling.
  • Modern Amenities and Safety: Enhancements include upgraded seating options, new shade structures, improved restrooms, better concessions and advanced lighting and sound systems. Updated circulation paths and service areas will also improve functionality and safety.

    • It’s also important to note that in May we completed our City Pool deck replacement – just in time for the 50th anniversary of this beloved facility.

    Our commitment to you

    The passage of the G.O. Bond shows that our residents prioritize quality of life. As St. George continues to grow, the outcomes of this initiative will play a vital role in shaping the city’s landscape and retaining our small town feel.

    By investing in trails, parks and recreation, we want to enrich the lives of our current residents while also carrying on a legacy of connectivity and recreation. And guess what? There is so much more to come!

    We are excited to show you what can be achieved when a community comes together to support a shared vision.

    Stay updated on the G.O. Bond at sgcityutah.gov/gobond.

    - Michele Randall has served as Mayor of St. George since 2021.

    By Michelle Randall