The Moberly Monitor-Index and Moberly Evening Democrat reported significant improvements are planned for Douglas Negro Park. The proposed upgrades include laying a main to provide drinking water, a crucial enhancement for park visitors.

Originally established at a cost of approximately $6,000, Douglas Negro Park features several facilities, including playground equipment, a tennis court, and a small lake. A shelter house was also constructed, but many of these amenities have fallen into disrepair over the years. The shelter house, in particular, appears to have been used for target practice, highlighting the need for restoration.

Access to Douglas Negro Park is located off Highway 24. E. H. “Mittie” McAdams announced that he has formed a three-man committee to oversee the park’s rejuvenation. The committee members—the Rev. T. R. Sayles, William Sheppard, and Helbert Brown—will meet with the park board on Monday night, September 30th, to discuss the planned improvements.

Continued Efforts to Restore Community Recreation

In addition to providing drinking water, the revitalization project will focus on repairing and upgrading the existing facilities to restore their functionality and appeal. The playground equipment and tennis court will receive much-needed attention to ensure they are safe and enjoyable for children and sports enthusiasts. The small lake, a central feature of the park, will also be cleaned and maintained to enhance its aesthetic and recreational value.

The shelter house, which has suffered the most neglect, will undergo significant renovations. Plans include repairing structural damages and refurbishing the interior to make it a suitable venue for community gatherings and events.

Community Involvement and Future Plans

The three-man committee, working closely with the park board, aims to ensure that the improvements meet the needs and expectations of the community. By involving local leaders like the Rev. T. R. Sayles, William Sheppard, and Helbert Brown, the project hopes to foster a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

Once the initial improvements are completed, ongoing maintenance and future enhancements will be considered to keep Douglas Negro Park a vibrant and well-utilized community asset. The collaboration between the committee and the park board promises a thorough and thoughtful approach to restoring Douglas Negro Park’s facilities, ensuring it once again becomes a cherished recreational area for the community.

These efforts aim to revitalize the park, ensuring it once again becomes a cherished recreational area for the community. The collaboration between the committee and the park board promises a thorough and thoughtful approach to restoring Douglas Negro Park’s facilities.