The 24-acre park, on Factory Road, runs parallel to the Creekside bike path. The facility is used by the Beavercreek Community Athletic Association youth baseball program and features include five youth baseball diamonds, a parking lot, access to the bike trail, picnic shelters and a playground.
The park was a gift from Ervin J. Nutter —a local philanthropist and entrepreneur who died in 2000.
“Now we have access from Factory Road, via a sidewalk all the way back into the park, which makes the connection to the Creekside (bike) Trail,” Thonnerieux said.
The pre-existing driveway was upgraded by adding paved roads and adding curbs, gutters, sewers, according to city staff. Previously this area used to have a gravel surface which made it difficult for people in wheelchairs, or on rollerblades or bicycles, to access the bike trail and park.
“We’ve made another connection from the neighborhood to Creekside Trail which we’ve heard from residents is a high priority,” Thonnerieux said.
The city made additional enhancements to the park by connecting Blue Rock Drive to the Creekside Trail.
“Once a project is completed and all the costs are known, the city council will have to pass legislation to officially start the assessment,” said Jeff Moorman, the city engineer. “Up until then, its just an estimated cost. Once all the final costs are done, they can start the process.”
The road upgrades were necessary for part of a nearby development project, according to the city. The developer will reimburse the city for the estimated costs of the improvements, $21,500, through a special assessment pending final council approval on Sept. 28.
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