By Patrick Baron

FAIRBURY – A park that has received a major overhaul in the past year is hosting a grand opening ceremony for the community to see the changes that have been made.

Marsh Park in Fairbury underwent a number of renovations last year to make the park more modern and safe. Dale Maley, Chair of the Fairbury Improvement Group, said volunteers put in around 2,000 hours of work into renovating the park.

Maley explained they refurbished a 115 year-old restroom, built a new gazebo, built a new bandstand, screened in one of the pavilions, installed two historic murals, consolidated the playground equipment, added security cameras, new light posts, new park benches, a new welcome sign, renovated the basketball court, and added 1,000 feet of new sidewalk.

Maley added residents are welcome to attend the grand opening ceremony this Saturday.

“On that day, on that Saturday, we’ll start it off with some music from the Prairie Central Marching Band, we’ll have a few speeches by people involved with renovating the park, we’re going to have live bands playing in our new bandstand, we have lots of kids activities including many types of games,” Maley explained.

Maley said the park will he holding festivities starting at 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. He explained people are welcome to come by any time, but he said coming at 11 a.m. will help show support and thanks for the people who put in hours of hard work to renovate the park.

“I would encourage everyone to try get there by 11 a.m. to catch the opening ceremonies, definitely have some fun, and then catch lunch at one of the food tents,” said Maley. “If you’re interested in sitting for a while and listening to the live bands, bring a lawn chair. We might have a few chairs, but it would be better if you brought your own chair.”

The park is located off of Ash and Maple Streets. Street parking is available for those who attend.

Patrick Baron can be reached at [email protected].