The official groundbreaking of the Rotary Centennial Playground at the Community Maritime Park will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 21.
The world-class, inclusive playground is being built to mark 100 years of Rotary Club in Pensacola and is a project of the Downtown Rotary Club. The playground was designed by and will be built by local firms who have donated many hours to the project’s development.
Phase one of the playground includes a play area for children ages 5 to 12 and a shaded picnic area surrounded by shade trees. Benches, night lighting, donor recognition and Rotary messages are integrated throughout the park. The park also features a clock centerpiece. The safe and durable rubber play area will incorporate a Rotary logo and is funded through an Impact 100 grant of $102,500.
A special area for children ages 2 to 5 is planned as fundraising allows.
Local architect John Tice has led the design committee and has enlisted the help of Larry Adams with his firm, Bullock Tice Associates, Steve Dana with Jerry Pate Design, David Delgallo with Morette Company, Joe DeReuil with Joe DeReuil Associates, and Keith Jacobs with Larry Jacobs & Associates. The committee has gathered input from many of the community’s stakeholders, the Community Maritime Park board, and several key city employees, including Ed Spears, the former Executive Director of the Community Maritime Park.
The current playground plan is budgeted at just over $600,000. The club has so far raised over $450,000. Donations and sponsorships from individuals, companies and organizations are being accepted through the club’s website: www.pensacolarotaryclub.org. Named sponsorships are also available.