A new initiative to promote Newcastle's parks is underway, as city commissioners aim to enhance community engagement and awareness of local recreational spaces. During a recent meeting, the focus was on educating both commissioners and residents about the city's park system, which boasts nearly 40 acres of developed parks, including 16 neighborhood parks and natural spaces.

Parks and trails planner Amy presented an overview of several parks, including China Creek Park, Belly Bunion Park, Gleneagles Park, and Trolley Park. Each park offers unique amenities, from playgrounds and picnic areas to walking trails and ADA-accessible features. For instance, China Creek Park, a neighborhood park, includes a play structure and informal trails, while Belly Bunion Park provides access to Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, enhancing its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of community involvement in park activities. Ideas for future events, such as Earth Day activities and seasonal gatherings, were discussed, with a focus on engaging residents in maintaining and enjoying these spaces. The commissioners expressed a desire to create a more systematic approach to promoting park visits, including potential social media campaigns and community challenges to encourage exploration of Newcastle's parks.

As the city continues to develop its park system, including two new parks currently in progress, the initiative aims to empower residents to support and utilize these valuable community resources. The next meeting will further explore additional parks, ensuring that Newcastle's green spaces remain a vibrant part of community life.