With recent days in the 60s and 70s, and daffodils starting to pop up from the ground, it is easy to think about warm spring days and getting outside. I think we still have a few more winter-like days ahead of us, but it won’t be too long before we can shed those big jackets. And that is exciting.
One new way to be active outside this spring will be a new playground at War Memorial Park. We are having a groundbreaking ceremony on March 10, and construction should be about 3-4 weeks. The City of Martinsburg, the Berkeley County Development Authority, and the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks and Recreation Board committed the funds to make this a reality. Be sure to check out our website and social media about the opening of the playground in April.
April 1 is the start of the pavilion rental season. Many of the parks have pavilions of many sizes for families and groups to rent for a great day in the park. There are 2 pavilions out at Poor House Farm Park, and multiple pavilions at War Memorial Park for use. Several of the other parks have a gazebo which is great for meeting for lunch, or an evening meal with your family or friends. And they are near other great park amenities, like playgrounds and trails. Book your next event in a pavilion on the website or by calling our office.
If you are looking to make an impact this summer, consider working for Parks and Recreation! We are currently looking for Summer Day Camp Counselors and Lifeguards. Our staff interacts with youth and their families daily while they are out of school this summer, making a positive impact on their lives. Often a first job for many in our community, working at Parks and Recreation gives you a start on your work or school career, giving you a hands-on experience serving people. You can apply on-line, with links on our website under “About Us.”
There are other great projects in the works that you will hear about in more detail in the coming months. The Board has awarded the bid to start the Spring Mills Park project. We are meeting with the design team about the Inwood Park creation. And little things, like painting the silo at Poor House Farm Park and putting a new roof on the small restroom at War Memorial Park, will be completed this spring in a constant effort to improve our parks. Programs like the Summer Concert Series and June Jubilee are well into the planning stages in preparation for you all to join us this summer.
I hope that you get a chance to enjoy this warmer weather, and are looking forward to Spring. I’ll see you outside!
Bob Williams, CPRP
Executive Director
