Delays in Robe-Ann Park force fireworks to move to Big Walnut Sports Park

Friday, June 21, 2024 at 4:04 AM

While renovations are underway at Robe-Ann Park in Greencastle, they are currently behind schedule and, as a result, the city's annual fireworks show will be moved to Big Walnut Sports Park.

"We had hoped the renovation project would meet the target date, but there are always issues that can affect the schedule. It is somewhat disappointing, but we are fortunate to have an alternative location," Greg Ruark, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Greencastle, told The Putnam County Post.

Big Walnut Sports Park was the scene of the department's eclipse celebration earlier this spring, as well as the parks and recreation department's Easter egg hunt.

"We are anxious to see how things go at Big Walnut. Our primary concern is to put on a great show for the community," Ruark said.

Robe-Ann Park saw renovations to the eastern portion of the park last year, while Phase II includes a new basketball court adjacent to Shelter 5, additional viewing areas for parents to watch their children at the Emerald Palace Playground and the reopening of a road to connect the road to the lower bowl road, which encircles Shelter 1 and the bandshell. In addition, there will be a food vendor plaza. Ruark has said the renovations will help simplify some of the parking issues, as well as address non-compliant issues within the park to bring it up to ADA compliance.

The renovations were to have been completed July 1, but Ruark said that deadline has been pushed back.

"The project should be near completion mid-July," Ruark said.