The West Plains Parks & Recreation Department reports steady progress across multiple park and facility improvement projects, with several upgrades entering key construction phases this week. Officials say the work represents one of the most active periods of park development in recent years.
At People’s Park, crews are completing the new shade structure and picnic table area. Beginning next Monday, workers will install lighting for the new pickleball courts and replace lighting at both the basketball court and the existing pickleball courts. Once the lighting phase is finished, the department will begin bringing in topsoil and preparing new green space. A concrete pad for the upcoming Fitness Park will also be poured, followed by installation of the fitness equipment. The new amenities will open once all portions of the project are complete.
At Children’s Park, new playground equipment began arriving today, and contractors are scheduled to start assembling the structures this week. Installation of new fencing is expected to begin either this week or next. When that project wraps up, crews will shift to the Hilburn Complex, where new batter’s eye fencing will be installed on Virdon Field.
Work at Lofton Park is expected to begin once the Children’s Park improvements are finished. Planned upgrades include a new pavilion, grills, cornhole stations, and picnic tables.
Progress also continues at the Parks Maintenance Shed, where the concrete pad has been poured. The new building is expected to arrive in approximately four to five weeks. After assembly, a fencing contractor will complete the final portion of the project.
At the Jimmie Carroll Sports Complex, new lighting has been installed and exterior metal siding has been replaced. Upcoming work includes painting the side doors and completing additional interior remodeling.
The city also plans seasonal renovations at People’s Park restrooms, which will begin once the bathrooms are closed for the summer. Meanwhile, at the Aquatic Center, crews are opening a section of the concrete block wall today to fully assess a water line issue. Once the extent of the problem is known, repairs will move forward as quickly as possible.
City officials say they appreciate the public’s patience as construction continues and look forward to residents enjoying the improvements for years to come.
