Community support helps push park improvements past $600K milestone
CIRCLEVILLE, OH — Just in time for the warmer months, brand-new basketball courts are now open at Ted Lewis Park, thanks to a generous donation from local business FORJAK Industrial and Darby Creek, and the continued efforts of the Friends of Ted Lewis Park.
The new full and half-court spaces were built, giving kids and families a much-needed recreational space in the heart of the city.
“This was a well-needed improvement for the community,” said Larry Logan, Chairman of the Friends of Ted Lewis Park, FORJAK donated all materials and labor, including concrete work. The project was spearheaded by Adam Logan, Katie Logan Hedges, and Thadd Sharrett, with support from employee Anna Armistead.
Larry Logan, a longtime advocate for park improvements and Chairman of Friends of Ted Lewis, emphasized the importance of accessible recreational areas. “Basketball courts are essential. This is a central, inner-city park where kids can walk here without needing a ride. I’d rather see them playing basketball than getting into trouble. This is a win for the whole community.”
An informal poll once conducted by Sciotopost showed nearly 95% of 400 respondents agreed the park needed new courts. Logan says the feedback was clear, and the community rallied behind it.
Since fundraising efforts began, over $600,000 has been raised through a mix of state grants and private donations. However, around $150,000 is still needed to complete planned improvements. Donations can be sent to the Pickaway County Community Foundation, in care of the Ted Lewis Park Fund.
Upcoming projects at the park include:
- A new $500,000 shelter house
- Dugout upgrades at the softball fields
- Additional benches and blacktop for parking
- Movies in the Park series, with four summer screenings on a massive outdoor screen
Thanks to community partnerships, progress is moving quickly. Darby Creek Excavating donated labor and materials to prepare land for the shelter house and cleared the site of the old structure. Vic Riffle upgraded all the softball field lighting to LED, with the Friends of Ted Lewis Park covering the $40,000 cost.
Park security has also been enhanced, with 360-degree surveillance now in place. “We will prosecute anyone using drugs or alcohol in the park,” Logan said firmly.
“This park belongs to everyone in Pickaway County,” Logan added. “We see 900 cars here on a good day — that tells us people are using and enjoying this space. And now there’s even more to enjoy.”
Logan mentioned on site as well during council meetings that the park had a lot of amenities for younger kids, but fell short with teenagers; he felt that the basketball courts could fill part of the gap.
For those who want to contribute, every dollar helps bring the park closer to completion and continues building a safe, fun, and welcoming place for generations to come. More info can be found on Friends of Ted Lewis Facebook site.
