Parks improvements under consideration

(8/9) During the Parks Commission meeting on August 2, several improvements to Walkersville’s parks were discussed, promising better recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The meeting shed light on a range of projects that aim to foster community engagement, environmental stewardship, and family connection.

Hoping to start her Girl Scout Silver Project, Paige-Maree May Woods of Troop 81369 requested that she be allowed to install a "Family Night Fun Box" at Community Park. Similar to a "Little Free Library," which have become popular in recent years, her proposed design includes a small box mounted on wooden stakes with double doors and two shelves to hold books and board games. Woods expressed her hope that the box will encourage local families to "come together and play games or read books they may not have access to otherwise."

To ensure the box’s contents will be protected against the elements, Woods intends to utilize storage bags for individual books and games, which will be donated, collected, and purchased with funds raised by Woods. The box will also be adorned with Walkersville’s signature blue and gold colors. With only brief discussion, Woods’ project received full approval from the commission and should be installed in mid-August.

At Trout Park, tree planting efforts initiated by the Maryland Forest Service are scheduled to take place at the end of September with the help of local Boy Scout Troop 1011. The project, which includes the planting of 20 large 15-gallon trees, is expected to be completed on September 30, and will improve water and erosion control as well as park aesthetic.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the much-awaited playground replacement at Heritage Farm Park. Parks maintenance technician Kelly Woods recommended that the commission prioritize revitalization of the main playground and delay swing set refurbishment due to high costs. With a budget of approximately $120,000, the Commission unanimously approved the installation of an option which includes a small climbing wall and a Poured-in-Place rubber surface. Additionally, it was decided to postpone installation of sunshades pending final determination of their size and exact location.