TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — $250,000 will be invested into Brittlebank Park on Grant Street. The money comes from the Indiana Department of Natural Resource’s Land and Water Conservation Fund.
Six new pickleball courts, bleachers, new bathroom facilities, a parking lot expansion, a new playground and a new basketball court will all be addressed within the funds.
Construction began on Monday and if all goes to plan, the entire project will be completed in 45 days. Everything will be ADA approved.
The grant and project has been looked at by the Terre Haute Parks and Recreation Department since 2019, but was postponed due to COVID-19.
Superintendent Eddie Bird said these renovations will accommodate all ages.
“I love to see when we upgrade a park or add amenities to a park because I think it just keeps the public happy. I hope everyone comes to enjoy park,” Bird said.
Parks becoming a priority investment for the city to improve the quality of life.
Bird said discussions are on-going about adding splashing pads to other parks and a possible pool to Deming.
A timeline for those projects is not known.
“Ever since COVID I think people have been getting out more and enjoying the outdoors,” He added.
Vanessa Wilson was enjoying Deming Park on Thursday with her 8-year-old son. She said she favors any aquatic additions.
“When the Deming Pool was closed, [splash pads] were a a highly asked for activity. People would travel far and wide for those things. A splash bad would be awesome, ” She said.
For Wilson and others, better parks mean a safe place for children to play.
“I think it’s important for young people to have somewhere to go with something to do and be productive with their time,” She added.
The new bathroom for the park is currently on backorder so it won’t be operational until next year.
