WORTON — The newest amenities to the public park here are multi-purpose sand courts.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony for what are generically referred to as “beach” tennis and volleyball courts was held Oct. 29; it was a late fall afternoon with weather that was ideal for outdoor activities.
Beth Donovan MacLeod, whose family foundation made a considerable donation to the project, wielded the giant ceremonial scissors as the Kent County Commissioners, representatives from various county departments and Justin Peacock of Millington-based Bayside Construction cheered.
County Commission President Ron Fithian welcomed everyone to what he described as “a momentous occasion” for the community.
He said the project signified more than just the addition of new offerings at Worton Park.
“It marks a significant step toward promoting active, healthy lifestyles, inclusion and community engagement for all ages,” said Fithian, reading from a prepared script.
He thanked the Donovon Family Foundation and Beach Tennis MD LLC for donations that totaled tens of thousands of dollars; Carrie Klein, deputy director of Kent County Public Works, and Chip MacLeod for coordinating the project; and the Kent County Roads Division for assistance.
“From the planners and designers who envisioned these courts to the construction teams who worked relentlessly to bring them to fruition, this has truly been a collaborative effort,” Fithian said.
“Your hard work and dedication shine through in every aspect of this project,” he added.
The courts — four total — are in space that previously served as two sand volleyball courts.
The setup has four nets, with tennis and volleyball as the obvious uses.
The space also could be used for other sand sports, such as soccer, and “a myriad of other activities that promote physical fitness,” Fithian said at the official opening.
Jill Coleman, Kent County Parks and Recreation director, told The Evening Enterprise that this is “drop-in” space that can be accessed at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis. But to guarantee that the space is available, reservations should be made through KCPR (410-778-1948) and a rental fee would be charged.
The Donovan Family Foundation and Beach Tennis MD pledged $80,000 to the project.
To date, the work completed cost about $67,000 and Kent County performed $13,000 worth of in-kind work, County Administrator Shelley Heller told The Evening Enterprise in an email.
“There were certain aspects of the project that cost the County less than a contractor would have charged,” Heller wrote in the email. “Since they pledged a total of $80k, they will put $13k toward project enhancements some time in the future.”
Heller said there has been no determination on the enhancements, but they potentially could include sail shades or a partial payment for lighting.
Lighting would cost significantly more than $13,000.
Heller said the county would need to fund the remainder of a lighting project with a grant or a line item in the budget.
And if not shade or lighting, another enhancement could be explored.
As he wrapped up his remarks on Oct. 29, Fithian said: “Most importantly, this project symbolizes what we can achieve when we unite with a common vision. Our aim was not only to create a space for recreation, but also to foster an environment where every member of our community feels welcomed and empowered to participate. As we cut this ribbon today, we are not merely opening courts; we are unlocking doos to opportunity, connection and growth.”
