Friends of Bonnerworth Park, city staff working together on park’s redevelopment

Friends of Bonnerworth Park has adopted a collaboration-based approach in its dealings with the city – a 360 from what has been a contentious relationship.

The citizens’ group, which fought the redevelopment of Bonnerworth Park as home to 14 pickleball courts and other sports amenities, lost that battle with work moving forward, but it now wants a seat at the table to help ensure the park continues to meet the wider community’s needs. In addition, the group seeks to have input regarding noise and traffic that’s generated.

Group director Richard Scott says the goal is to give the city “every opportunity to do the right thing” once park work resumes.

Scott dismisses the notion that Friends of Bonnerworth Park came out the loser in its battle to see the urban greenspace maintained.

Having met twice with city staff recently, another meeting is set for April. Scott is hopeful more information will be forthcoming.

(Written by: Paul Rellinger)