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WAC talks possible names for new park on West Broad Street
(by Sandi Latimer, staff writer - November 17, 2011)
The proposed park along West Broad Street continues to occupy discussion at Westland Area Commission (WAC) meetings.
Members considered selecting a name for the park at the Nov. 16 meeting, but decided to talk with the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department to learn when work will begin.
Plans were to start in the spring with the park to be completed by fall. To date, no work has been done.
Early reports said work was delayed, because the department had to attain permits through the Darby Accord.
Shawn Thomas, who serves as parks and recreation chairman for the WAC, said he cannot get a satisfactory answer from Maureen Lorenz, his contact with the department.
The WAC discussed contacting State Rep. Cheryl Grossman, Columbus City Council or Mayor Michael Coleman.
Jamie Mueller said Thomas and WAC President Linda Pitts should schedule a meeting Lorenz to attain answers.
Earlier this year WAC conducted a community survey at the Westland Area Library, where they collected 30 name suggestions for the park.
Those names included Alton Prairie, Galloway Fields Park and Sheriff James A. Karnes Memorial Park.
During the meeting three additional names were suggested.
“The family of former WAC member Art McCabe called me and asked if the park could be named for him,” Mike McKay said. He also offered the name Dan Province, the first WAC president, who passed away a couple years ago.
Mueller suggested the John W. Galbreath Clover Preserve and Recreation Center. When Pitts reminded him there would not be a recreation center, Mueller said the latter could be added later.
Another topic addressed was the proposed Camp Chase bike hub.
The WAC postponed writing a letter of support until they can see movement on the West Broad Street park.
The hub would be a community center, car park and starting point for a multi-purpose trail that stretches through the Westside and connects to downtown Columbus. It would be part of a trail that runs from Cleveland to Cincinnati.
WAC will not meet in December. The next meeting will be on Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. at Doctors Hospital.
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