World War II Veterans Memorial State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids World War II Veterans Memorial State Park |
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 World War II Veterans Memorial State Park
Location in Rhode Island
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| Location | Woonsocket, Providence, Rhode Island, United States |
| Area | 14 acres (5.7 ha) |
| Elevation | 138 ft (42 m) |
| Established | 1960 |
| Governing body | Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Parks & Recreation |
| Website | World War II Veterans Memorial State Park |
World War II Veterans Memorial State Park is a fun public park in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. It's a great place for outdoor activities! This park sits on land once called the Social flatlands. Long ago, big factories called textile mills used to operate here, right next to the Mill River. These mills were active until the early 1900s.
Since 1979, the park has been home to the popular three-day Autumnfest celebration. This event happens every year around Columbus Day Weekend, bringing lots of people to the park!
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Park Improvements and Updates
In 2012, there was a bit of a disagreement between the city and state governments. They needed to figure out who would be in charge of keeping the park well-maintained in the future. The director of the Department of Environmental Management announced that a big plan to fix up the park, which had become a bit run-down, would be put on hold. This pause was needed until they could agree on who would handle the park's care and staffing in the long term.
Funding for Park Renovation
By 2014, the state government decided to help out. They set aside money in their budget for the park's improvements and upkeep. This funding was planned to last for five years, starting in 2015. The main goal was for the state to eventually hand over the land to the city. This way, the city could take full responsibility for its maintenance.
New Features for Visitors
Eventually, an agreement was reached! The Department of Environmental Management provided a grant of $2.6 million to improve the park. The city also helped by doing preparation work with its Public Works Department. Thanks to this project, the park got some exciting new features.
The grounds were redesigned to include a cool splash park, a fun playground, and an area for outdoor activities. They also added basketball courts and a new little league baseball field near Social Street. A special ceremony was held in early 2016 to celebrate the reopening of the park, which is now owned and operated by the city.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
World War II Veterans Memorial State Park offers many activities for everyone to enjoy!
- Splash Park: A great place to cool off and have fun on hot days.
- Baseball Field: Perfect for playing a game of baseball or practicing your swings.
- Basketball Courts: Shoot some hoops with friends or join a pickup game.
- Playground: Kids can climb, slide, and play safely.
- Picnic Tables: Enjoy a meal outdoors with your family and friends.
- Walking Paths: Take a stroll and explore the park's beautiful surroundings.
- Performance Stage: Sometimes, there are shows or events held here.
- Veterans Monument: A special place to remember and honor veterans.
