Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Facilities topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council renames Franklin Park adventure center for Ben Espy; family and city officials praise his legacy
Summary
Columbus City Council approved a resolution renaming the Franklin Park Adventure Center the Ben Espy Adaptive Sports Complex. Family members and council members spoke about Espy's public service and perseverance after a 1984 accident that led to an amputation.
Columbus City Council unanimously adopted a resolution to rename the Franklin Park Adventure Center the Ben Espy Adaptive Sports Complex.
Council members described Ben Espy as a statesman, former council member and state senator whose public service and advocacy helped shape local civic life. Speakers emphasized Espy’s leadership, public-service career, and his perseverance after losing part of a leg in a 1984 accident; council members said the adaptive sports complex is a fitting honor because the facility will serve people with disabilities.
Members of the Espy and Duffy families attended and the family’s representative, speaking for several relatives, thanked the council and city Recreation and Parks staff for the recognition. The family acknowledged Kathy Duffy Espy’s long record of civic leadership and Ben Espy’s work in government and community life.
Council president and sponsors said the center will be renamed formally once renovations are complete and a ribbon-cutting date will be announced; the resolution passed during the meeting.
Ending: The renaming recognizes a local leader’s legacy and signals the city’s intention to center accessibility and disability-inclusive programming at the renovated facility.
