NEW AND  BETTER PARKS & RECREATION 

Click to see picture of proposed new park 

The city and county, along with the YMCA, are partnering to plan a new park.  With proceeds from the Will Ed Hooker estate, an architecture firm which specializes in park design has been hired and has created a master plan for the proposed park, which will be located basically between the YMCA on Cuba Road and Kendor Wood on South 10^th Street.  The park will consist of roughly 37 total acres with expansion a possibility.

 This project would have never been possible without the proceeds from the Will Ed Hooker estate, which will pay for the initial start of the park.  Many thanks to the late Mr. Hooker and all the people that helped in that process.  Wouldn’t this town be different if people left a portion of their estates to certain projects, like park improvements?

 Current plans call for an extensive walking trail, which traverses through the woods surrounding Kess Creek, six  pavilions capable of hosting relatively large picnics or family reunions, a “sprayground”, sand volleyball, two playground areas, basketball courts and possibly some other features.   

It will serve as a place for both the person seeking active recreation, such as jogging or playing volleyball, or the person who wants to sit on a park bench and enjoy nature.  In other words, the park should offer something for everyone.   

Probably the first feature to be constructed will be part of the walking trail, which, weather permitting, will begin in December 2005.  Unfortunately, neither the city, county or the Y has the financial ability to build everything outlined in the master plan immediately.  The park will be a work in progress and will require community support, which is always available when the public makes up their collective mind  that it is going to happen. 

We have received many positive comments on the need and excitement for this park.  It will be an asset that will be enjoyed well into the future, and it will be one of the many pieces of economic development and industrial recruitment. 

Progressive communities foster agencies that are willing to cooperate to provide for the common improvement.  This is an improvement that we need and it will pay dividends for years to come.