COLUMBIANA – After years of planning, fundraising and community support, Phase I of the Columbiana Project Playground is now under construction.

The city made the announcement Thursday of the progess on the community-driven initiative to bring a state-of-the-art inclusive recreational space for local families and visitors at Firestone Park.

The city expressed its appreciation and gratitude to the Project Playground Committee for the countless hours of volunteer work, planning, advocacy, fundraising and strategic coordination that has successfully steered this community-driven initiative to this historic and celebratory achievement.

The committee, consisting of Michaela Good, Lauren Wiley, Fritz Nelson, Mallory DeMaiolo, Stephanie Kale, and Lauren Halverstadt, has been the driving force behind this effort. Through their dedication and leadership, the committee has successfully engaged the community, organized fundraising initiatives, and helped transform an ambitious vision into a project that is now under construction.

“The dedication of the committee has been truly remarkable” said Mayor Rick Noel. “Their passion, persistence, and commitment to creating an inclusive recreational space for children and families have inspired our entire community. We are incredibly thankful for everything they have done to move this project forward.”

The city also announced that Columbiana Project Playground has been included in Ohio’s Capital Budget, securing a $300,000 investment to support Phase II of the project. This funding will help construct accessible restroom facilities and a community learning space, further enhancing the park’s ability to serve residents of all ages and abilities and further establish Firestone Park as a regional destination. This investment represents more than funding for a playground — it is a recognition of the continued growth and momentum taking place throughout Columbiana.

“Being included in the Capital Budget puts Firestone Park on the map in a new way,” said CPP President Michaela Good. “This investment demonstrates that state leaders recognize the importance of what we’re building here. Firestone Park has long been one of Columbiana’s greatest assets, and by transforming a once outdated and deteriorating playground that provided lifetime memories for the last 30 years, this new all-inclusive facility will provide lasting memories for the community and visitors for many years to come.”

The City and Columbiana Project Playground extended its gratitude to the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, state Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel and state Sen. Al Cutrona for their advocacy and support in securing this important investment.

“Project Playground truly represents the spirit of our community” said President of City Council Skip Liston. “This project would not be possible without the generosity of so many people who believed in creating an inclusive space for children and families. Every donation, sponsorship, and volunteer hour has helped Columbiana Project Playground reach this milestone, and we are incredibly grateful for the support they have received.”

“The Project Playground Committee has been the driving force behind this effort,” said City Manager Lance Willard. “Their commitment to creating an inclusive recreational space for children of all abilities has inspired tremendous community support and helped turn a vision into reality.”

To date, more than $780,000 has been raised through the generosity of local residents, businesses, grants, civic organizations, foundations, and community partners.

“Columbiana Project Playground reflects the very best of Columbiana,” said Liston. “The overwhelming support they’ve received demonstrates how much our community values creating spaces that bring people together. This project is the result of hundreds of people working toward a shared goal, and the impact will be felt for generations. Not only has the committee hosted events as fundraisers they have also brought the community together through the Memorial Day Parade and park clean up events.”

For information about donating to Columbiana Project Playground, visit PlayAtFirestone.com. Those with questions about Phase II can contact Willard at 330-482-2173 or lwillard@columbianaohio.gov.

(Submitted material)