Pryor City Council considers creating Giles Park for education and preservation

A transformative vision for the City of Pryor Creek's park system emerged during the Park Board meeting on June 23, 2025, as discussions centered on the potential development of a 179-acre ecological park. The initiative, spearheaded by community member Kathy and supported by city officials, aims to create an educational outdoor space for children and families, promoting nature-based learning and recreation.

Tom Giles, a key figure in the project, articulated the vision of the park as a place for kids to play and learn away from the streets. He emphasized the importance of preserving the area's natural history, which dates back to the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The plan includes features such as walking trails, picnic areas, and possibly a disc golf course, all designed to enhance community engagement with nature.

The board discussed the need for proper signage and maps to welcome visitors and guide them through the park. Plans are underway to name the park, with suggestions like "Giles Park" to honor the contributions of local leaders. The board unanimously recommended that the city council officially designate the area as a city park, which would allow for better management and protection of the land.

In addition to the park discussions, the meeting also addressed ongoing challenges faced by the city’s parks and cemetery departments, particularly in the wake of recent storm damage. Frank Powell, the parks director, highlighted the need for additional staffing to manage the increased workload, especially after the tornado that impacted the cemetery. The board recognized the importance of community involvement and support in maintaining and improving local parks, emphasizing that the city’s resources are stretched thin.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed optimism about the future of the park initiative and the potential for community collaboration to bring the vision to life. The next steps will involve presenting the proposal to the city council, with hopes of securing the necessary support and funding to realize this ambitious project.