Amber James used measuring tape to check the size of a table at Ewing Park.
“I’m thinking of having my son’s birthday party here,” she said.
The park recently received upgrades to two pavilions, tennis courts and the electrical system, with the power relocated underground.
Existing slides, a grill and other kid-friendly items await visitors in the area where James planned to throw a medieval-themed first birthday party for son Gage.
“We come out here every once in a while and they have certainly improved it,” James said.
Park and Recreation Commissioner Kathy Smith said park upgrades have been ongoing for more than a year. The newest phase was funded through a $100,000 Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program grant.
“It’s such a work in progress that I’ve seen it evolve from just plain ground,” Smith said. “With pretty trees, new fencing, an improved walking path and pavilions and a new area in the park – all those things are such an enhancement to the park.”
First Baptist Church of Callahan pitched in $5,000 toward labor expenses for roof replacements on two pavilions. Church volunteers had planned to work on the project but were only available Saturdays. Because the project has to be finished in mid-April for town officials to receive fund reimbursement, Pastor Lynn Hyatt presented the Callahan Town Council with the donation April 16.
“It still helped us with the costs,” Smith said. “And the church used its resources to find us somebody to do this on such short notice.”
The park was dedicated May 31, 1981 as Ewing Memorial Park in memory of A.E. “Gene” Ewing, who was the mayor of Callahan 1938-42.
Karoline Ham said that she and daughter Everly, 18 months, enjoy going to the park whenever possible. The pair spent time on the slide after eating snacks at a picnic table near playground equipment April 19.
Ewing Park also provides a paved walking path that winds through the grounds. New lighting was added to the rear of the park and an area was cleared recently to expand the play area. New fencing will also be added to provide additional security.
Despite the upgrades, town officials still have challenges with property maintenance. Skateboards are not allowed in the park, yet there is evidence of skateboarders using metal tables as a starting point to catapult themselves into the air, frustrating town officials.
“We just shake our heads,” Smith said. “But what can we do?”
Future plans include adding a new piece of play equipment near the park’s east end by a large pavilion. Metal seating will replace all existing wood picnic tables, according to Town Manager Mike Williams.
Smith plans to continue to enhance the grounds and recreational choices at the park.
“I’m just really proud that we have such a nice park for our community to enjoy,” she said.