People who frequent Charlottesville's Azalea Park will soon have new spaces to enjoy. The park is getting a makeover thanks to a new influx of cash.
Organizers say the changes taking place will not only make the park more fun. They'll also make things safer.
Chris Gensic of Charlottesville Parks and Recreation said, "We're going to be doing some musical chairs work in this park."
While pointing to a map, Gensic explained how they are moving the dog park and doubling it in size. The playground will replace the old dog park. Gensic added,"We're going to cut the road off so cars can't get back here and park and sort of hide."
Moving the playground to the front of the park keeps visitors safer. Gensic said, "You're more visible to the road and women with small children won't feel as isolated back in this corner."
These changes have been three years in the making. Brian Becker of the Azalea Park Task Force said, "It's dragged out, its been several years now."
Members of the Azalea Park Task Force are elated to see about $900,000 in grants and city cash transform their park and the trails that lace through it.
Becker described the trail in his backyard, "It was overgrown with poison ivy at one point a tree had fallen across so they've really been forthcoming in getting this part of the improvements done."
The group added there are still improvements to be made.
Becker stated, "There's a gate that has not been locked as consistently as we would like so we are trying to work with the city to see that that happens."
All in all, they're excited to continue to work with the city as they spruce up the park to keep it safe and enjoyable for Charlottesville.
Becker said, "We can rearrange things and improve it, so this is the opportunity to do that."
