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Some people may not think cleaning up a park is headed toward greatness, but in my book, I sure do. The City of Magee has waited many years for the rebuilding of our City Park. We fussed. We’ve even cussed. And yes, we’ve talked bad about others. But now — the opening of the park is finally in our headlights!
The plan is to open by the end of September. No firm date yet, but I can already picture it. Citizen Lyn Duncan made the best suggestion — let’s have a ribbon cutting when the time comes! I love that idea. And why stop there? Let’s bring in food trucks, fire trucks, games… I want our first City Park experience to be magical!
When I first saw the new playground equipment, I’ll admit, my reaction was, “This cost what?” But once I looked closer, I realized the thought that went into it. The equipment is grouped into age-appropriate areas. No, we won’t have everything we want right away (I’m still pushing for pickleball!), but we have a strong beginning — and beginnings grow. We can always add, we can always expand.
What amazes me most is the dedication behind the scenes. So many people have put in countless hours. Help is still needed — and you don’t have to wait on a planned workday. Just grab your rake and get to work! At Thursday’s Clean the Park Day, I watched little children raking right beside senior citizens. It was proof that you’re never too young or too old to make a difference.
And let me tell you — Bruce Lewis has moved mountains out there. If you remember the old park, you’ll recall those short concrete barriers around the grounds. Bruce has removed every single one of them. That’s no small feat!
Tiffany Kinslow is a fireball! Nothing stops this lady! She is working on more grants!
The playground contractor will be back next week to finish setting up, and City Superintendent Tim Bray is scheduled to add a water tap for the sprinkler system.
The numbers are staggering — the park project carries an estimated cost of $424,367.00, covering the playground, site prep, tennis courts, and engineering fees. Additional costs for fencing and upgrades, plus the amphitheater and landscaping, will be covered by grants.
It’s been a long road, but by the end of September, we should all be walking through the gates of a brand-new City Park. And I, for one, can’t wait.
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