Now open: The Phark's new can. (Photo: Downtown Eau Claire, Inc.)

As of today, now the call of nature at Phoenix Park won’t be quite so unwelcome. The park's snazzy new public restrooms, located next to the Farmers Market pavilion, are up and running as of this morning.

According to Downtown Eau Claire, Inc., with the exception of timed locks (which will eventually be added to the doors), the bathroom construction is complete. The total price tag for the project was kept way down thanks to members of the Chippewa Valley Homebuilders Association donating labor or providing it at cost and to RCU and two Downtown Improvement Districts for contributing to the project, as well. All in all, the city will pay between $80,000 and $90,000 for the project. Anyone can use the new bathrooms from 6am to 11pm daily.

So tonight, while you’re listening to some sweet tunes at the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series, you can go to the bathroom in style. Don’t forget – music starts at 6:30pm (pre-show at 6pm).