By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
Work on a total revamping of South Ward Park in Decatur is likely to begin next spring, Parks Superintendent Cara Gerber recently told WZBD.com.
Gerber had just reported to city council the success of the capital campaign which will provide funds for the project to renovate the park and make it an all-inclusive area for youngsters and adults.
As of that day, Nov. 3, Gerber said the campaign had raised $53,398 – with a $10,000 match from Adams Memorial Hospital to be added.
In addition, she said she should learn Nov. 18 about another grant which has been applied for.
The community drive needed to raise $50,000 in order to gain a $50,000 match from Patronicity’s IHCDA (Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority) state program.
The hospital match will boost the local effort to $61,034, bringing the entire total – including the Patronicity grant – to $111,034.
Plans for the park include a universally designed playground with accessible and sensory-focused play opportunities, a toddler play structure, improved sidewalks and accessibility.
“This park is about so much more than playground equipment,” Gerber said after the goal had been reached. “It’s about making sure every child has a place to play, every family has a place to gather, and everyone has a place to belong.”
TAKE THE SURVEY: At the same meeting, Gerber said she had received 458 responses to the survey seeking public input on the parks.
The parks department is looking to put together a 5-Year Master Plan and is seeking public comment before doing so.
“Our parks and recreation facilities belong to our community,” the department said in a news release. “Before we decide where we need to invest our time, resources, and funding over the next five years, we want to hear directly from the people who use our parks and recreation facilities.”
Gerber said at the recent meeting that people responding to the survey do not need to answer all questions, of which there are several.
SAND TABLE; South Ward park will have a sand table and little seats that children can explore in (see photo).
The seats are 22 centimeters tall with the table at 42 centimeters tall.
Ages to sit at the table are 6 months-plus.
This is a fun piece that will be placed next to a special play structure for younger children, officials said.
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