Worthington residents always have valued the high-quality parks, facilities and programming that the city has to offer.
If the past two years of the pandemic have shown us anything, it is that Worthington’s parks and recreation opportunities are vital to our community’s mental and physical well-being, and their importance have only grown.
This spring and summer, the Community Center and Griswold Center are fully back open and are a central hub for creativity, family fun and fitness for people of all ages. We invite residents to become a member or drop in to check out all the activities, arts, camps and programs going on in both facilities.
In recognition of Older Americans Month in May, the Griswold Center is offering a special Valpak coupon for a five-day trial of the Griswold fitness room, so be on the lookout and experience the Griswold Center for free.
We continue to invest in our facilities and bring new assets and opportunities to the community. One of the most exciting projects underway is the much-anticipated renovation at McCord Park. The entire park is getting updated in two phases with amenities and improvements identified during a robust public process.
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Phase 1 includes a new playground, two new reservable shelters, a full-size soccer field and paved multiuse trails. Another exciting new addition will be the train observation area featuring an authentic 1922 B&O Railroad caboose, where families and individuals can climb aboard and watch the passing trains on the nearby tracks.
Design work for phase 2 of the McCord Park renovations is underway and will include renovating the four ball diamonds and completing a half-mile paved multiuse loop trail system among a variety of additional improvements.
Other parks and facilities throughout the city also will see significant investment. The playground at Perry Park is getting replaced this fall, and design is being finalized based upon community input. We received more than 150 survey responses from neighbors giving their thoughts on what they would like to see at the park.
Pickleball has proven to be a popular hit at the Olentangy Parklands, and the well-used courts will see resurfacing and a new coat of paint this summer. The courts will be closed temporarily during the renovation, but once reopened, players will enjoy the courts in much improved shape for the rest of the season.
In addition to facility improvements, the summer months also are bringing a wide variety of program options to residents. The popular summer camps are back for children. Full- and half-day camps are scheduled, including active and creative options. The “On-The-Go” camp is also back, featuring a new and exciting day trip each day.
Adults also could participate in day trips around the state. Hop on the bus and enjoy a trip to Kelley’s Island or take a behind-the-scenes tour of Ohio Stadium among other trips. For history buffs, we have partnered with the Worthington Historical Society for a series of guided history tours around Worthington.
Finally, Family Nature Night is a new series of nature education programs that will meet at East Granville Park once a month, offering opportunities to learn about bats, lightning bugs and other critters found in the city. Each program will include a craft and critter hunt that the entire family could enjoy.
These updates are a snapshot of the numerous events, programs and opportunities being presented by the Worthington Parks & Recreation staff. Go to worthington.org to stay up to date and discover more opportunities.
We hope to see you and your family in the months ahead.
Darren Hurley is the Worthington Parks & Recreation director.
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