Page 25 - Florida Sentinel 8-14-20

FLORIDA SENTINEL FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020
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Mayor Castor Shares Plans For Fair Oaks Park Expansion With Community Input
The project is expected to cost $18 million
Mayor Jane Castor announced details of the City’s plans to expand and redevelop Fair Oaks Park in East Tampa using community input. Sev- eral of the community’s Neighbor- hood Crime Watch leaders were in attendance.
Through a series of meetings, Tampa Parks & Rec has gathered recommendations from the commu- nity on ways to improve Fair Oaks Park to better meet the needs of res- idents and uplift the vibrant East Tampa neighborhood.
“Our parks are the heartbeat of our neighborhoods, and this project will allow us to transform Fair Oaks Park to reflect the interests and needs of our residents, whether that be new recreation programs, gym- nastics, dance, theater, senior pro- grams, and so much more,” says Mayor Castor. “We have a vision, but the final concept will depend on what the community wants to see at Fair Oaks. We will continue working hand in hand with our residents to make sure this park has something for the entire East Tampa commu- nity – from the young to the young at heart.”
City Councilman Bill Carlson
had led an earlier outcry from citi- zens for the center to be rebuilt, not repaired.
Tampa City Councilman Or- lando Gudes, who represents the district, attended the press confer- ence last Wednesday to anounce the project. He is pleased at what the project will become. “It will add so much for the children – a stage, place for football and basketball; im- prove the walking trail and add much needed lighting.
“So many of the seniors wanted a building at Al Barnes Park, but right now we’re not able to do that. We’re looking at trying to obtain the build- ing at the old Penny Saver to become a part of Fair Oaks project. We’re also reaching out to the East Tampa CRA to be a part of this project,” he said.
As the redevelopment project progresses, the City plans to con- tinue working with the community by hosting public input meetings to determine the best facility upgrades and programming additions that will transform Fair Oaks into a cherished recreation destination for all ages.
Fran Tate of the Jackson Heights Neighborhood As- sociation and Crime Watch was among those pleased with what oc- curred.
“I was so delighted to see that we all came together on this project. The Mayor and City Councilman Gudes have worked hard to bring improvements to this district and this community. We can’t wait for it all to come to fruition. We’re happy for the seniors and the youth.
“We’re grateful for the hard work of the City Council for bringing this project to the forefront and working with the community,” Ms. Tate said.
Ms. Cynthia Few of the College Hill Neighborhood Crime Watch said: “It’s long overdue. Thanks to the City Council, especially Mayor Castor and Councilman Gudes for finally hearing what the commu- nity requested.
“Also, we’re pleased that they’re trying to get a senior center in East Tampa, which is the good results of the cry from the community.”
Current development concepts include:
• Renovated rec center
• A new 7,300SF multi-use facility that may be used as a theater or multi-purpose space to be deter- mined
• Covered shelters, basketball courts, a tot playground and splash pad,
• An updated active football and softball field
• The City is proposing an inclusive park for children with unique abili- ties
• The City will be vacating East Caracas and Ellicott Streets to make room for expanded parking
• The area between Caracas and El- licott will include a walking trail with lights around the perimeter
• The City will build a 13,200SF senior center using the same layout as Barksdale at MacFarlane Park. This area will include shuffleboard courts, a vita course, and sun garden. • The City is working to acquire ad- ditional land for expansion
• In addition to public input, the City also hopes to leverage the strong support of the CRA to achieve the re- development vision.
• For more information about Tampa Parks & Rec programs and facilities, visit tampagov.net/parks.
Children playing on equipment at Fair Oaks Park.
Mayor Jane Castor announces the upcoming project for Fair Oaks Park.
Councilman Orlando Gudes addresses those in attendance.