The old saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child,” and Fort Payne has proven itself to be one generous village.
That spirit was on full display Tuesday morning as city officials, community leaders, and volunteers gathered for the ribbon-cutting of a new playground at Kiwanis Field, located beside the Wills Valley Recreation Center.
The project was a collaboration between the City of Fort Payne, the Kiwanis Club, and GameTime, a local playground equipment manufacturer. Together, they raised about $130,000 and combined resources, donations, and volunteer hours to turn a shared vision into reality.
The new playground offers a variety of features for children of all ages, including multiple slides, bridges, ramps, climbing walls, ladders, and climbing nets — a welcome addition to the community’s recreation offerings.
“This was a team effort, a full team effort,” said GameTime President S. Spencer Cheak. “Obviously, the Kiwanis Club drove it, Brandon and that group drove it, but GameTime, other businesses in the community, the city — just a real team effort. This is what we get up in the morning at GameTime to do — to bring smiles to kids’ faces and enrich communities.”
Kiwanis Club President Brandon McBride thanked the many hands that made the project possible. “Everyone kind of just worked through the rain and the mud,” he said. “That just shows what kind of community we live in, and I’m proud to be part of Fort Payne.”
McBride also praised the Fort Payne High School Key Club for volunteering to spread mulch and help prepare the playground. “A great group of kids came up and worked and played in the mud,” he said. “There is hope for our country.”
Mayor Brian Baine said the playground represents both persistence and progress for Fort Payne. “I appreciate your persistence to be able to get this done — to actually cut a ribbon on a beautiful, beautiful playground,” Baine said. “This is just the beginning of what we hope we can do — some pickleball courts, possibly a splash pad later.”
The new playground is the first phase of a larger plan which, according to representatives, includes a walking trail and a dog park, with an overall investment of about $600,000 when complete.
The Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce praised the efforts of everyone involved, stating, “This project is a true gift to the community, offering families a fun and safe place to play, explore, and make memories for years to come.”
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
