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Papillion proclaims July 2026 Park and Recreation Month as City Park reopens
Summary
The Papillion City Council proclaimed July 2026 Park and Recreation Month and celebrated the reopening of City Park; staff announced upcoming stakeholder meetings for a large, ADA-inclusive playground at Hallett Park and a city ribbon-cutting during Papillion Days.
The Papillion City Council on July 16 proclaimed July 2026 as Park and Recreation Month and marked the reopening of City Park, a downtown space the mayor said would reshape the area.
"The fence came down at City Park finally," the mayor said, praising staff for landscaping and construction work that left the park open to residents and visitors while the stage and shelter remain fenced for Papillion Days activities. The proclamation included a summary of the city's park system: 26 parks, 33 miles of trails, 21 playgrounds, 85 athletic fields and courts, four recreational facilities, four lakes, a campground and about 1,434 acres of public space. The proclamation also noted that the U.S. House has designated July as Park and Recreation Month.
Tony, a city staff member, told the council that although some infrastructure work remains, residents were already using the park and the city expects Papillion Days events to draw more visitors. "It's been amazing to see," he said, noting the work of crews and volunteers who finished landscaping and plantings.
Tracy, speaking on upcoming projects, described plans for a major inclusive playground at Hallett Park. "It will be truly inclusive," Tracy said, explaining the design team Olson will lead stakeholder meetings next week and bring an ADA-inclusive expert from Massachusetts to advise on features for users of all abilities. Stakeholder meetings will include residents with limited mobility and parents of children with disabilities to shape the playground's layout and equipment.
City Administrator Ms. Powers said a soft ribbon cutting for City Park will be at 4 p.m. during Papillion Days, with a larger dedication planned for late August. She also highlighted summer programming including the farmers market returning July 1, library summer reading through July 31, Sumtur Amphitheater concerts on July 3 and July 25, and two community hydrant parties on July 18 and July 25.
The council closed the item without formal action beyond the proclamation; the mayor and staff encouraged residents to attend Papillion Days events and visit the park as remaining finishing work is completed.
