This July, we’re proud to celebrate the 40th anniversary of National Park and Recreation Month, launched by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) in 1985. Each year, communities across the country take time to recognize the people, places, and programs that make parks and recreation a cornerstone of community life. This year’s theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” honors the professionals and volunteers who help us connect, thrive, and grow — through parks, programs, and shared spaces.
Our local Parks and Recreation Department is proud to reflect on a year of accomplishments that strengthen community health, sustainability, and inclusivity. From program growth to facility improvements, here are a few highlights from the past year:
Expanded Program Offerings
We introduced a range of new classes and events designed to serve all ages and interests, including expanded fitness and art programs, as well as afterschool programs at local elementary schools. These offerings support both physical health and creative expression. Just this summer alone, youth program participation has increased by 28.5% compared to 2024 — a strong sign of community engagement and satisfaction.
Park Improvements
This year brought several exciting enhancements to our parks. We installed new ADA-accessible picnic tables to ensure inclusive access for all visitors, and new trashcan lids were added throughout the city to improve cleanliness and support sustainability. Additionally, we repainted all park restrooms and upgraded interior and exterior lighting at multiple facilities to enhance safety, visibility, and the overall park experience.
Environmental Stewardship
At Citizens Park, with the help of volunteer’s staff installed a 1,300-square-foot pollinator garden as part of a turf conversion project, replacing traditional grass with native plants and switching to drip irrigation to reduce water use and support biodiversity. We also planted 10 new trees to improve canopy cover and contribute to long-term environmental health. In response to the emergence of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in our area, we are actively monitoring ash trees, evaluating treatment options, and planning for sustainable tree replacements to maintain a healthy urban forest across the city.
Fitness Center Enhancements
Our Fitness Center continues to serve as a “third place” — a welcoming, accessible gathering space for health, connection, and community. This year, we prioritized equipment upgrades, routine maintenance, and are actively pursuing ADA modifications to better serve residents of all abilities. These improvements reflect our commitment to providing inclusive wellness opportunities for everyone.
Parks and recreation services are essential to building vibrant, healthy communities. Whether you’re attending a yoga class, enjoying a picnic, walking your dog, or watching your child play, these spaces and experiences create memories that last a lifetime.
Join us this July in celebrating Park and Recreation Month — explore your parks, thank a staff member, and take part in the programs that help us all build and play together.
