EAST PALESTINE — After a slow start beleaguered with setbacks, the $25 million East Palestine park project is finally making significant strides.

Over the weekend, both the new pickleball and tennis courts opened for use and major progress was made towards construction of the new aquatic center .

“We are very pleased to continue seeing progress within the park,” East Palestine Village Manager Antonio Diaz-Guy said. “Not only is the rough foundation for the pool dug and in place, we are thrilled that as of Aug. 2 the pickleball and tennis courts are open and ready for use, just in time for the East Palestine Tennis Team to hold open courts.”

The village took a more proactive approach in making sure the project stays on track after the overhaul fell way behind and way over budget. Communication has increased with regular meetings now held between the village, Michael Baker International — the design firm tapped by Norfolk Southern to complete the project — and the railroad itself. The village also has increased its involvement in the entire process by requesting changes to work plans and offering input that has sped up the progress.

Most recently, the village held a think tank session with a group of residents especially qualified to make recommendations towards the final plans for the three-area playground that will replace Rainbow Dreamland — the parents of small children in the village.

According to Diaz-Guy, that group reviewed the tentative playground design and provided suggestions and ranked options regarding themes, accessibility, and what type of equipment they would like to see.

“This information is being put into a single report for provision to Michael Baker,” Diaz-Guy said.

While there’s still a lot of work to be done with the project’s construction in the second of its three phases, the big picture is starting to take shape as components are completed.

“As you can see if you drive by, each day brings with it a lot of work and some unique challenges for the team onsite, but we are confident that together we can make this park amazing,” Diaz-Guy.

“As we progress through the next phases, we hope to share more positive updates,” he added.

While the village is “thrilled” to welcome the community to the new courts, it asked the public to “please note the park is still under construction.”

“For everyone’s safety you must stay out of the active construction areas indicated by orange or metal fencing, and abide by all construction signage,” the village said.

The village encourages the community to come to the park and take photos while there.

“Bring your friends and enjoy these beautiful new spaces built for the community to stay active and connected and to share photos of their time spent at the park,” the village said. “We would love to see you in action, share your photos with us on Facebook at Village of East Palestine, Ohio.”