Contact Information:

Meg Matthews

Public Relations Manager

mmatthews@littlerock.gov

(501) 804-4822

Media Advisory

What: War Memorial Playground Ribbon Cutting

When: Wednesday, May 23, 2012 – 10:30 a.m.

Where: War Memorial Park – Fair Park Blvd.

The completion of the revitalization of War Memorial Park is here! After years of planning with interested citizens and working committees, the City of Little Rock will now see the fruits of its labor. This project has been in the works since consultants were hired in 2007 to come up with a plan for War Memorial Park. Funding for this $1.2 million transformation comes from a Parks and Recreation bond refinancing.

A dedication ceremony will take place, Wednesday, May 23^rd at 10:30 by the new playground area. This new playground features climbing areas and a spray water area – similar to what the City created at Peabody Park. The old playground area has become green space.

The new playground is designed to have outdoor rooms – each with its own unique characteristics that heighten experiences of children and adults alike.  Additionally, a range of climbing skill levels is woven into the native stone walls - with some areas that will be attractive to professional rock climbers.

A knobby hill is available for climbing with a variety of ways to enter and exit over it.  There are numerous slides that penetrate through it to underground tunnels that lead to the water spray play area.  Grottos, caves and rock crannies are laced with water spray, mist and fog that provide a distinctive play experience and relief from the heat.  A large open space is stage aside of this for free play, catch, volleyball or other field games.

The Pavilion is also nestled nearby to take advantage of views of Coleman Creek, the golf course as well as the natural play area.  This facility accommodates special events and is available for rental.  Its location is convenient to the surrounding area and offers the opportunity to enjoy the excitement of viewing the visitors enjoying the natural play environment and water spray play area, and all the other activities generated by the surrounding park amenities.

Members of the City’s Board of Directors, the City Manager, the Parks and Recreation Commission and Parks staff will be on hand at the dedication.