Construction is underway on a new playground at Keeley Park. This themed structure celebrates the long-standing roots of the site, a site that has been home to the Jackson County Fair since 1854. According to a release from Jackson County Parks and Fairs, the playground is themed towards a farm, and includes play features that represent barns and farm animals. Excavation work has begun and the site is surrounded by temporary construction fencing. The playground will be located on the west side of the entry drive at Keeley Park. Installation of the play pieces is expected begin in the next couple of weeks. The project will wrap up with concrete and fencing work, and everything is scheduled to be completed by mid-May.

The release says this project is fully funded in donations, and made possible because of support from the Alvin Glick Foundation.

“The Alvin Glick Foundation is proud to support projects that promote the health and well-being of our community’s children. This playground will offer a fantastic space for kids to be active, enjoy the fresh air, and experience the joy of outdoor play in a fun, farm-inspired setting,” said Randy Glick, President of the Alvin Glick Foundation.

The new playground will provide an amenity for families to utilize during the Jackson County Fair, but also coincides with Keeley Park’s masterplan that has a vision to make the grounds a year-round destination.

“We are excited to add this feature to Keeley Park and truly appreciate the Alvin Glick Foundations support to make this possible for the community to enjoy,” said Jackson County Parks Director Kyle Lewis. “This playground is unique and exciting, and also a reminder of the significant 172-year history of what takes place at Keeley Park.”