The future of Elkhart Parks and Recreation - City of Elkhart, Indiana

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 26, 2016

The future of Elkhart Parks and Recreation ELKHART (September 26, 2016) – Mayor Tim Neese joined the Elkhart Parks and Recreation Department today to unveil the first phase of the city’s park improvement plan. The plan was unveiled at Langle Park during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the park’s new playground equipment. Renovations at Langle Park were completed in-house by the city’s Buildings and Grounds Department. Additional renovations are also slated for Edgewater, High Dive and McNaughton Parks. “Over the past several months, Parks Superintendent Clyde Riley has actively sought community input on how Elkhart’s 36 parks can best serve our residents,” Neese said. “He has gathered feedback from a variety of sources – including the Vibrant Communities Initiative – and is now taking those community ideas and making them a reality.” Improvements include new playground equipment at Edgewater and McNaughton Parks, the addition of a Dog Park at High Dive Park and four pickleball courts at High Dive and McNaughton Parks. Once completed, McNaughton Park will be the first ADA compliant park in the city and the only in Elkhart County. City leaders described the improvements as a way to help shape the identity of the community and provide a physical representation of Elkhart’s quality of place. “Today’s economy is no longer just about attracting business. It is about attracting people,” Neese said. “The younger generation is looking to put down roots in cities that have job opportunities, but they are also looking for lifestyle opportunities. Amenities such as a robust parks system can not only aid in attracting business investment, but also personal investment.” The city of Elkhart currently owns and maintains 36 parks totaling 350 acres. To learn more about the city’s six month park improvement plan, please visit: www.elkhartindiana.org/egov/documents/1474976920_63553.pdf. -30-