MANSFIELD — Construction has begun at the Sterkel Community Park for All, a 20-acre, all-inclusive park and playground at the city park off Hillcrest Street.
But organizers said Monday additional funds for play equipment are needed in April in order for the site to open in the fall as planned.
The park site off Hillcrest Street in the heart of Mansfield will be one of Ohio’s premier community parks, where residents of all ages and levels of abilities can visit and enjoy, according to organizers.
The project, a collaboration among Newhope, Richland Community Development Group (RCDG), and the City of Mansfield, has raised $4,350,000 so far, including a recent gift of $50,000.
But it needs $4.5 million to order the equipment that would complete the first three play zones.
“We are so grateful for the donations we have received so far,” said Michele Giess, superintendent of the Richland County Developmental Disabilities Board (Newhope).
“I am thrilled to see the construction activity begin, but we need one final push to
make this park a reality,” she said.
“We can’t wait any longer to order equipment, as costs continue to increase. We must move forward and secure the funds we need by May,” Giess said.
Zone 1 work is underway. Most equipment for this zone has been installed and the remaining equipment will be put in place when the weather permits, organizers said.
The park pavilion has been built and restrooms are almost complete. This zone will also feature pickle ball courts, fitness equipment under roof, ping pong tables and benches.
“Park security is something that is very important to us,” Giess said. “We’ve had Schmidt Security install a state-of-the-art system that will allow the city to monitor the area and after-hours activity to keep the park safe and secure.”
Among donors, the Richland County Board of Commissioners has contributed $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for the park. A donor has offered to match another $25,000 if the project reaches the $4.5 million mark.
Zones 2 and 3 will include a railroad train, track, and train station, and other special play equipment funded by community donors. These zones can be completed by late fall if the equipment is ordered this spring.
The final two zones, Zones 4 and 5, will be completed as more funds come in.
“This park will be a wonderful asset for Mansfield and the surrounding area, as it will provide a safe, accessible, and fun place for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy nature, exercise, and socialize,” Giess said.
“We hope everyone who can contribute to this project will step up and help us open
this park. I am looking forward to the grand opening and a ribbon cutting
celebration later this year,” she said.
Donations can be made online at the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce website at www.richlandareachamber.com. Scroll to the bottom of the Chamber’s home page and click on “sector groups” under “Initiatives”; then, click on Sterkel Park Sector’s “donate” button.
Gift checks can be sent to PARK-RCDG, in care of Newhope, 314 Cleveland Ave.,
Mansfield, Ohio, 44902.
For more information about the park project, contact Giess at 419-
774-4200 or mgiess@rnewhope.org or Susan Gentille at 419-543-0972.