$15.4 million public park to be built in Parrish
PARISH, Florida (FloridaToday.news) — By the end of next year, Manatee County residents will be able to visit the park at Ft. Hamer Road in Parrish for free family fun.
The roadside area near Parrish Community High School will become what will be called Parrish Community Park.
After years of waiting, Manatee County officials are set to begin construction on the multi-stage park on August 11. Playgrounds, walking paths, and a pavilion are just part of this 11.5-acre puzzle. Parrish Civic Association leaders have $15.4 million to start making their dream come true.
“In fact, it started with our previous president, Gretchen Fowler,” said Jennifer Hamie, president of the Parrish Civic Association. “That was probably 6 or 7 years ago.”
Hamie said that Fowler can predict the rapid growth of the community. Now the Civic Association officials must execute the plans on county funding.
“A place where people can come and watch movies at night, or have a jazz band perform, or have other events and activities that people can come and bring their families to,” Hamie said.
The second phase of the project is still in development. Another public swimming pool could be suggested here.
“I assume there will be a fee for the aquatic center, but I can’t speak 100% about that,” Hamie said.
The aquatic center’s communal swimming pool will measure 25 yards by 25 meters with 10 swimming lanes.
Perhaps the best part of the new project is that the features of the first phase will be free. For a fast growing area, this park is essential for the community.
Hamie said they would like to further expand and revitalize downtown Parrish in the future.
