Updated: September 9, 2020

Tuesday August 25th at 9:00 am the official Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Southside Community Park Phase 1 took place. This construction project was made possible by the Tuscora Park Foundation’s board of trustees’ decision to become the third party easement holder for the property included in phase one of the Southside Community Park’s development. That decision cleared the way for the Foundation, and the City, to receive the $1.5 million dollar State Clean Ohio grant that is being used to fund the majority of the construction cost.

Ohio Senator Jay Hottinger also played a key role in funding this project. With his help, the City was able to obtain a $400,000 grant from the State’s biennial budget. The Ohio and Erie Canalway Coalition, on the recommendation of Executive Director Dan Rice, contributed a $40,000 construction grant. And W.E. Quicksall and Associates helped the City apply for and receive a $32,000 Ohio Nature Works grant, that will also help cover construction costs.

The vision of this project was put forth by members of the City Parks and Recreation Board. They saw the need to develop such a park in our City; one that met the need for a dog park and walking trails through wooded areas. These amenities will make a lasting contribution to healthy living for the two legged and four legged members of our community. The setting of this park will be unique and will help all of us gain a better appreciation of the natural blessings we have been given. 

Now that shovels have been put in the ground, Vizmeg Landscaping can get back to work on this amazing project.

If you would like to support this project and others like it CLICK HERE