MCT-2024-08-01

8 —Marion County’s Finest 2024 Finest Recreation Area Awarded to Jasper Parks J asper Parks and Recreation has long served as a vital community hub since its establishment in 1967 by the Town of Jasper. Initially, the park began with a 29-acre plot, and through subsequent expansions in 2004 and 2023, it now spans a total of 98.65 acres. These expansions in- cluded the addition of 26.65 acres in 2004 and another 43 acres in 2023. A significant milestone for the park came in 2004 with the construc- tion of a five-field complex, made pos- sible by a 50 percent matching grant from the Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF). Other enhancements followed, including the installation of a walking track in 2009, a play- ground in 2017, and a new security camera system in 2023. The park also makes use of a lot on the town square for various community activi- ties. The oversight of the park’s ren- ovations and updates is managed by the Jasper Board of Aldermen and the Mayor, with additional guidance from an advisory Park Board led by the Park Director. When Justin Baker assumed the role of Park Director in 2016, he began evaluating the park’s existing features and exploring opportunities for im- provement. One notable initiative that emerged was the addition of walk- ing trails. Following the election of Mayor Jason Turner in 2020, atten- tion was directed towards repurposing old railroad tracks that extend from the Town’s park to Highway 150. The vision was to create a nature trail, a project requiring meticulous planning and execution. By 2023, the development was in full swing, with the renovation of the second bridge recently completed. Current efforts are focused on lev- eling the railroad bed and adding a gravel surface. The new trail will connect seamlessly to the existing path in front of the sports complex and extend to the new Jasper Middle School, adding over half a mile for a total of 1.3 miles. This trail will be designated for walkers, runners, and cyclists, with no motorized vehicles allowed. The project, which reflects the vision and planning of Mayor Turner, has been carried out entirely by Town of Jasper employees. Looking forward, Jasper Parks and Recreation has ambitious plans. A Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) has been secured to build a new pavilion in the park, lo- cated behind the fire hall. Scheduled for completion by 2025, this pavilion will offer a versatile space for large events and gatherings, including birthday parties. It will feature roll- up sides for year-round use, heating and cooling systems, bathroom facil- ities, and a concession/kitchen area. In addition to the pavilion, the department is working on further projects related to the walking trail and continuously enhancing special events. Recent events such as the Jasper Big Boom have been well-re- ceived, and preparations are under- way for the Josh Jennings Jack-O- Lantern Jamboree on October 26th, which attracts over 2,500 children and their families each year. These events are provided at no cost to families, with only food and drink expenses for parents. The depart- ment is also in the planning stages for Christmas events, aiming to bring even more community enjoyment in the future.