Commission hears progress on Freedom Park stewardship and inclusive playground fundraising plans

Commission members and staff reported progress on several parks projects on July 14, including stewardship planning for Freedom Park, early fundraising and community outreach for an inclusive playground, and a proposed community open house.

Commissioner remarks summarized recent subcommittee work on staging projects and emphasized completing active projects rather than only starting them. The parks and playground subcommittee said it is exploring a joint meeting with the Historic Preservation Commission to discuss historic features such as the Flintstone car, the windmill at Holland Gardens Park and the Veil Tower, and it raised maintenance items including the Fort Nugent pathway.

Brian (parks staff member) said staff are evaluating arborist bandwidth and will do a site visit for Freedom Park; city staff are coordinating with Washington Trails Association and volunteer groups, and a tentative community service project with a local church is planned for Aug. 24. Brian said the Navy has also expressed interest in volunteer stewardship hours at Freedom Park.

Commissioners and staff discussed the inclusive playground project and next steps for fundraising. The parks and playground subcommittee said Sherwood will host a Windjammer event Aug. 9 where Brian will discuss the inclusive playground and commission members said they would consider an open…