Meridian City Parks and Recreation Commission has taken a significant step towards enhancing community engagement and recreation with the proposed installation of a Ninja Warrior course at Discovery Park. This initiative, driven by the heartfelt story of a local family, aims to create a fun and challenging space for children and teens, particularly targeting the often underserved age group of 10 to 15 years.

During the January 8, 2025, meeting, Mike Barton presented the project, which is inspired by a young girl diagnosed with a serious illness who dreams of having a Ninja Warrior course to enjoy with her friends. The community has rallied around this cause, successfully raising $185,000 towards the project, with ongoing efforts to secure an additional $20,000 grant from Blue Cross and potential in-kind donations for construction.

The proposed course will feature various obstacles, including a warp wall, angled ladders, and a rope climber, all designed to provide a safe and engaging experience for users. The surface will be made of artificial turf, ensuring low maintenance and safety for participants. The course's location has been carefully selected to comply with existing easements in the park, ensuring it fits well within the overall design of Discovery Park, which emphasizes family-friendly amenities.

Commissioners expressed strong support for the project, recognizing its potential to foster physical activity and community spirit. Plans for a formal dedication of the course are also in the works, ensuring that the family involved is honored for their contribution to this meaningful addition to the park.

As the project moves forward, the commission will continue discussions with city leadership to finalize funding and implementation details, aiming for a swift completion to bring this exciting new amenity to life for the Meridian community.