Recreation Creation - Brief Article

Parks & Recreation, March, 2000

A glimpse at some of the country's newest park and recreation projects - as well as who's bringing them to fruition.

WILMORE PARKS AND RECREATION

WILMORE, KENTUCKY

Going up: The City of Wilmore will break ground on the development of a new 32-acre park in spring 2000. The park is adjacent to 1110 acre of land owned by Ichthus Ministries. Trails will connect the two properties and the public will have access to all 142 acres.

What they're saying: "The new park is a needed addition to the community. In addition to sports leagues and tournaments, many community and special activities will be held there, such as festivals and musical events." -- Amy Allen, Wilmore Parks & Recreation Director

Digs: Planned facilities for the new park include a large playground, soccer and softball fields, a resorted 1800s log cabin interpretive center, fitness trails and lots of picniking opportunities.

Projected completion: Spring 2003 (three phases to complete

Who do they think they are?: Wilmore, population 4,215, is a small town with big dreams. In addition to the new park, the City fo Wilmore recently created a parks and recreation department and hired a fultime director.

PORT CHARLOTTE PARKS PROJECT

PORT CHARLOTTE, FLA.

Going up: The Charlotte County Parks and Recreation Commission has selected HOK to plan and design three regional parks--approximately 70 to 100 acres each--on what is currently undeveloped land.

What they're saying: "The parks will be a great asset to Charlotte County and will provide residents with recreational opportunities that were not previously available." -- Paul Brickey, senior associate and technical director, HOK Atlanta office

Digs: Park amenities will include soccer and softball fields, a disc golf course, nature trails, a skateboard park, and a hockey arena.

Projected completion: Summer/Fall 2001

Who do they think they are?: HOK was ranked by World Architecture magazine as the world's largest architecture/design firm. Projects include Coors Field in Denver.

Consider your groundbreaking groundbreaking news? Send us the details at Parks & Recreation, 22377 Belmont Ridge Rd., Ashburn, VA 20148.