Parks and community programs update: donation-funded Project Unplugged space now running revenue-supported programs; summer events coming

City staff updated the Board of Aldermen April 14 on parks programming and a privately funded wellness initiative, plus several upcoming community events.

Project Unplugged

Staff said a Town and Country resident donated $35,000 to start "Project Unplugged." According to the staff presentation, the city spent $17,000 on a physical facility at Longview Farmhouse and used $18,000 for program start-up costs (speakers, facilitators and initial supplies). Staff reported Project Unplugged now runs revenue-generating programs including winter wellness workshops conducted in partnership with Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

Parks events and facilities

Alderman Murphy reported the parks-and-trails commission will kick off its summer concert series Thursday, April 24 at 6 p.m.; the commission will give away 100 free tickets to mark the city’s anniversary and will celebrate with a donated anniversary cake. The Trace Park pavilion main structure is substantially complete, with electrical, finishing and furnishings to be installed so groups may use the pavilion beginning May 9.

Other community items

Staff reminded residents of the city's shred and e-cycle event scheduled Saturday (posted start 9 a.m.; residents were advised to arrive early). The Architecture Review Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 5 at 5:30 p.m. at the Municipal Center.

Why it matters: The donation-funded Project Unplugged program has moved from startup funding to an ongoing, revenue-supported set of activities. Upcoming parks facilities and events will affect public use and city programming schedules.

What happens next: Staff will continue to operate and expand Project Unplugged offerings; park pavilion bookings will open for use after May 9.