(Joplin, MO) – The City of Joplin is bringing new energy to Ewert Park as promised with the voter-approved renewal of the ¼-cent Parks and Stormwater Sales Tax. Since the closure of the aquatic center, citizens have expressed interest in utilizing the space in new and dynamic ways. This revitalization effort focuses on feedback from neighborhood stakeholders and the information gathered in the Parks Master Plan. The development of Ewert Splash Park, a state-of-the-art seasonal park, will be the first aquatic amenity of its kind in the community. Its features will be utilized in both the summer and winter seasons and include wet and dry play areas, a 12-foot wide ice skate ribbon, updated shade structures and seating, landscaping, and improvements to the current bathhouse building for year-round activities.
These improvements will not just be limited to the new Splash Park. Initial approved concepts for Ewert Park include a new playground to replace the existing structure, a covered basketball/multi-use court, a modern amphitheater with sound systems and lighting for special events, and increased safety and security features.
The park’s design will use elements highlighting Ewert Park’s history and importance, telling its story and prominence in the City of Joplin. Revitalization efforts aim to provide a community gathering space with quality amenities that will last.
A virtual public open house is available to collect citizens’ feedback and the next steps on the initial ideas heard for the park’s design and features. The open house will be available on the project website through April 22, 2024, at 11:59 pm.
For citizens unable to access the virtual open house website, two displays of the Ewert Splash Park designs have been created for viewing and comments. One display is located at the Joplin public Library on the far west end of the lobby near the vending area. There is also a display in the Main Lobby of Joplin City Hall (602 S. Main Street). Both have poster boards with information from the website for viewing. Citizens should indicate their preferred designs on the provided comment cards near the display. These displays will be available through 5:00 pm on April 22, 2024. Citizens can also sign up for project alerts by visiting the project website or marking the appropriate box on the comment form.
For more information about Ewert Splash Park, please contact Paul Bloomberg, City of Joplin Parks and Recreation Director at pbloombe@joplinmo.org.
About Joplin Parks & Recreation
The Joplin Parks and Recreation Department provides quality parks, services, and programs to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Joplin and surrounding communities. Learn more at www.joplinparks.org.
Reference:
Paul Bloomberg, Director of Parks and Recreation
City of Joplin
pbloombe@joplinmo.org
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