Children in Waycross have three improved places to play after dedication ceremonies Friday officially opening renovated parks at Elizabeth Street, Garlington and Bailey Street.
The three facilities celebrated upgrades with separate ribbon-cutting ceremonies October 17 with city officials, neighborhood residents and a host of children on hand to get their first look at a new ball field, playground equipment and splash pads among the improvements.
Waycross City Manager Ulysses “Duke” Rayford welcomed those gathered for each dedication starting in District 2 at Elizabeth Park and continuing to Garlington in District 3 before concluding at Bailey Street in District 1.
Mayor Michael-Angelo James offered remarks before each of the commissioners Sheinita Bennett, Katrena Felder and Shawn Roberts addressed the groups gathered at their respective facilities.
The upgrades were nearly three years coming after Gov. Brian Kemp made $225 million available from state American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in late 2022 for municipal recreation in targeted areas following the coronavirus pandemic.
Waycross received the maximum $2.2 million award available from the fund, and pledged another $400,000 of its own ARPA money for the improvement projects to enhance its chances of receiving the maximum award.
Mayor Michael-Angelo James listens in as District 3 Commissioner Katrena Felder speaks. Photos by RICK NOLTE
Work on the parks began this year in late March, and was completed late last month. Macon-based contractor ICB Construction, Waycross Public Works Department and ESG personnel handled the work. Upgrades were tailored to each of the parks. Each received restroom facilities and new fencing as well as the latest playground equipment.
Elizabeth and Garlington each now have a splash pad and new pavillion. Those water features join the city’s first splash pad in Pernell Roberts Memorial Park which was built with city and private funds three years ago.
Bailey Street’s major upgrades came to its baseball/softball facility.
Neighborhood children cool off at the splash pad in Garlington Park during dedication ceremonies Photos by RICK NOLTE
