Woodbury unveils $40 million Central Park renovation with new amenities and state support

Mayor Anne Bert welcomed residents to Central Park and showcased the city’s newly renovated community facility, calling it “a $40 million project.” The mayor said the redesign opens walls for more glass and natural light, upgrades the Lookout Ridge indoor playground, expands birthday-party spaces and adds enhanced technology so visitors can work or study on site.

The mayor said the project’s funding mix included grants, partner contributions and city funds, and specifically thanked state partners for a $7.5 million bonding allocation. “This was a $40 million project,” Bert said, noting the city pursued multiple funding sources to limit local tax impact.

Bert also highlighted Destination Woodbury, the city’s marketing arm funded by a 3% lodging tax, and said officials plan to promote park rentals, the sports center and other amenities to attract visitors and support local hotels.

City leaders tied the Central Park investment to broader strategic planning and community engagement: performance measures and a recent community survey inform which amenities the city prioritizes. Bert said results of the survey will be released after April and will guide future programming and strategic initiatives.

The mayor invited residents to use the updated facility and to contact city staff with questions about rentals and programs. Staff will be available after the event at information tables to discuss room bookings and recreation offerings.