We have been delighted to see how many people are enjoying Lancaster Park, and pavilion rentals are quickly booking up for families eager to use the new space. Traffic on the new section of the interurban trail has been encouraging as we see people enjoying a fall stroll or bike ride. Now that we are putting the finishing touches and preparing for final inspections, we are happy to announce that a date has been set for the ribbon cutting. Please join us as we celebrate the construction of Lancaster Park and the Interurban Trail on Friday, Oct. 4, at 11:30 a.m. at Lancaster Park.
As these two projects come to a close and the stabilization of the River Greenway is well on its way to starting, we will focus on a few other projects that have been identified as needing attention. Roush Park is especially busy in the summer months, with all four diamonds running simultaneously. Additional parking and existing parking lot repairs are at the top of our list to help alleviate congestion and improve ADA accessibility.
Another item of serious concern is replacing the 50-plus-year-old Wells Community Pool before it fails completely. Each year, we cross our fingers and hold our breath that we can get it to start up and that the lining that prevents the pool from leaking can make it another year. According to the 5-year master plan survey we conducted a few years ago, swimming was at the top of the list of 30 recreational activities responders participate in. During the 2022 Wells Community Pool Master Plan, the focus group with representatives from the swim team identified the desire for a 25-yard pool that better suits their needs. Our department also regularly hears from the community about the need to bring back a baby pool for small children. Pool design options have come a long way in the last 50 years, and zero-depth entries with water playgrounds have become popular areas for little kids while providing easy access for people with mobility issues. We are very excited about the possibilities.
Fortunately, there are funds/grants to help offset the costs of building a new pool, and the Common Council is proactively working with our department to support efforts to provide the community with a pool that includes features that will attract visitors to Bluffton. Together, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and bring a facility our community can be proud of while we continue providing life-saving services, exercise opportunities, and family fun.
As we close out the month of September, we want to remind you that we still have openings in the Hue Can Paint Class for ages seven and up to paint a Halloween Scene on Monday, Sept. 30, from 6-7:45 p.m. at Washington Park. The $15 fee is due at the beginning of class. Call 824-6069 to register, and space is limited.
Free Senior Snippets classes kick off this Monday. Class topics include managing a stress-less mentality, cooking for 1 or 2, fall prevention, coloring for relaxation, Wells County history, easy fall crafts, movie club (The Sound of Music), and crochet lessons. Call 824-6069 for more details and to sign up.
Remember to stop by the free Theater Thursday program at the Wells County Public Library this week on Sept. 26. We will be showing “Ordinary Angels,” rated PG, at 10 a.m. Snacks will be provided.
Enjoy the last day of Street Fair!
