First PATH Project is Ready to Roll

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The City of Heath and Park Board launched the Parks And Trails of Heath (PATH) fund raising program in November 2019, and its first project to bring more shade to Towne Center Park will be underway by the Fall of 2020.

The project includes planting a mix of at least 25, 100 gallon/5 inch oak trees in the park. Some of the tree “groves” will include new park benches on concrete slabs, and a new water bottle filler with a pet water fountain will also be installed.

“We are excited about this project because the improvements in Towne Center Park will have an immediate impact,” said King, noting that increasing shade in city parks and along trails was a priority cited by citizens during the community input process of developing the 2018 Parks, Trails and Recreation Plan. Other citizen priorities include expanding trails and trail connectivity citywide; and improving playground equipment and amenities at existing parks.

“Through PATH, citizens and businesses have the opportunity to help the City achieve these goals by making a monthly contribution with their utility bills or a one-time donation,” said King.

PATH is benefiting from strong citizen participation as well as corporate support by Heath-based Impact Selector International, Tom Thumb, The Malouff Group and The UPS Store. Additionally, the Heath Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) and Municipal Benefits Corporation (HMBC) dedicates 25 percent of its annual revenue to Park Capital Improvement Projects, and City Council is consistently funding park and trail projects through the Capital Improvement Project and annual budget processes.

You can learn more about how you can become a 2020 Charter PATH member and find a list of Heath friends, neighbors and businesses who are already involved.

DEVELOPERS DOING THEIR PART FOR PARKS

When the Park Board spearheaded the Parks, Trails and Recreation Plan in 2018, they also led the adoption of amendments to the City’s Parkland Dedication Ordinance to increase and encourage developer in parkland dedication and park development in new and expanding subdivisions. The revisions have already led to success, such as Heath Crossing developers dedicating four acres for a new park in its next phase of construction along White Road. Heath Crossing will also fund amenities including a trail, landscaping and small parking area for the park. The final plat that includes the park is  anticipated within the next 12 months.