Joplin to boost patrols at Spiva Park after viral fountain photo
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Joplin Mayor Rob O'Brian said the city plans to increase park ranger patrols at Spiva Park, continue work on a major road improvement project and review the latest economic development activity during Monday night's City Council meeting.
During an interview Monday on Newstalk KZRG, O'Brian addressed a photo that circulated on social media showing a person appearing to bathe in the fountain at Spiva Park.
O'Brian said entering the fountain is prohibited and noted the nearly 60-year-old structure was built as a decorative feature, not for public use.
"It looks inviting, especially when we talk about hot weather, but it's not really safe," O'Brian said, citing slippery surfaces, hard materials and sharp edges that could cause serious injuries.
In response, the city plans to increase park ranger patrols and adjust patrol routes so officers spend more time in the downtown park. O'Brian said the added presence is intended to improve safety and address concerns from residents who may be hesitant to visit the area.
The City Council will also consider approving more than $300,000 for engineering services tied to improvements along Davis Boulevard.
O'Brian said the project will redesign the intersection where Davis Boulevard meets 32nd Street by relocating the connection farther east toward Stephens Drive and away from nearby railroad tracks. The work is intended to improve traffic flow and safety at the busy intersection.
The Missouri Department of Transportation is handling improvements along 32nd Street, while the city's engineering work will focus on connecting the relocated intersection back to the existing Davis Boulevard corridor.
Council members are also expected to receive their quarterly update from the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and the MOKAN Partnership.
O'Brian said the report will include updates on economic development prospects, business expansions and tourism trends. The chamber also uses AI data to provide anonymous information about visitor traffic and where people are spending time throughout the community.
He said those reports help city leaders understand local business activity and make informed decisions as they prepare the annual budget.
With dangerous heat expected this week, O'Brian said the city has opened cooling centers at the Public Safety Center, City Hall and the Joplin Public Library. The facilities are scheduled to operate Monday and Tuesday, with additional days to be determined based on weather conditions.
