In the heart of Morris City, excitement buzzed through the air as the City Council gathered to discuss a transformative project that promises to reshape the community landscape. The evening began with a warm acknowledgment of the Gen 2 group, a team of enthusiastic young leaders, before the spotlight shifted to the ambitious East Side Park project, presented by the NextGen team.

Tamara, a member of the NextGen group, passionately outlined their vision for the park, emphasizing its role as a central hub for community connection and inclusivity. "This initiative isn't just about building a playground," she stated, "it's about creating a space where everyone feels welcomed and valued." The project aims to cater to individuals of all abilities, fostering an environment where families can gather, children can play, and friendships can flourish.

The proposed East Side Park will feature a sprawling 23,000 square foot playground, a new shelter, updated bathrooms, and a band shell, all designed to enhance community engagement. The project will unfold in three phases, with an estimated total cost of $2.5 million. The first phase alone, which includes the playground and parking lot, is projected to cost around $2 million. The team expressed their commitment to funding the project through donations from local businesses and community members, ensuring that it reflects the heart and values of Morris.

As the presentation progressed, the team highlighted the importance of community involvement in the park's development. "This isn't just a project for the community; it's a project by the community," they reiterated, underscoring their goal to create a destination that not only serves local families but also attracts visitors from outside the area.

Mark Hendrickson from LSI, the proposed vendor for the project, added to the enthusiasm, sharing his personal connection to Morris and the potential impact of the park on the community. He emphasized the importance of quality and timely delivery in the construction process, assuring the council of LSI's commitment to excellence.

The timeline for the East Side Park project is ambitious, with hopes to secure funding and finalize designs in 2025, aiming for completion by the summer of 2026. The NextGen team left the council meeting with a clear objective: to gain approval to move forward with their plans and to rally the community around this exciting initiative.

As the meeting concluded, the vision for East Side Park resonated with the council and attendees alike, leaving a sense of anticipation for a future where laughter echoes through the park, and memories are made in a space designed for everyone.