A three-year community effort to revitalize one of Chatham-Kent’s busiest parks has reached its conclusion.
The five-phase revitalization of J.G. Taylor Park in Chatham is now complete and includes significant improvements to recreation, accessibility, and community gathering opportunities for residents of all ages.
The King Street park’s newest amenities include a new regulation-size basketball court with player seating, modern playground equipment, hard-surfaced accessible pathways, concrete game tables for chess and ping pong, and more. The final phase of the project, which was recently completed, included renovations to the pavilion and the installation of new park signage.
“This project demonstrates what can be accomplished when community members, businesses, organizations, and local government work together toward a common goal,” said Marjorie Crew, a CK councillor and member of the J.G. Taylor Park Revitalization Committee, in a news release. “The improvements made over the past three years will benefit residents and visitors for generations to come while honouring the rich history and legacy of this site.”
The project was made possible through support from Hydro One-Ward Funding, Clarke Construction, CK Ready Mix, John Harris Concrete, the CK Police Service Board, the CK Police Association, Steel Shake and Tile with SBRoofing and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
The revitalization committee plans to dedicate the project to the legacy of the Woodstock Industrial Institute, which was founded at the site in 1908. A dedication ceremony will be held at the park on Thursday.