The city of Richmond celebrated the completion of about $2.3 million in upgrades at Wendell Park this past week, including a new restroom, ballfields and irrigation system.
The renovation comes as part of $37 million in spending in recent years directed at improving city parks and recreation spaces, including nearly $8 million from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, according to a statement from the city manager’s office.
Wendell Park, a 2.2-acre park on 24th Street and Wendell Avenue in the North and East neighborhood in central Richmond, also got new backstops, fencing and renovated seating areas for the softball field.
“The City of Richmond is putting our community first with these historic improvements to Wendell Park,” Mayor Eduardo Martinez said in a statement. “For years, the community has called for more access to parks and outdoor spaces, especially for families in historically underserved districts. We’re proud these long overdue investments will give families more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and play soccer, softball and baseball in their own community.”
The softball field’s infield and youth soccer fields were also improved.
The city said in a statement that the work was prioritized at the park after community meetings that identified needed improvements.
“Wendell Park’s renovations are part of the City’s broader commitment to investing in the services and infrastructure that Richmond residents depend on,” City Manager Shasa Curl said in a statement. “From parks and recreation to streets, public facilities and other essential services, our goal is to make smart investments that improve quality of life across the city.”