Phase 2 Begins June 16
The revitalization of East Palestine Village Park is gaining momentum as we move into the highly
anticipated second phase of the $25 million renovation project. With Phase 1 nearly complete and
essential permits now secured from the Ohio Department of Health, we are thrilled to announce
that construction on Phase 2 will officially begin on June 16.
This phase marks a major milestone in the park’s transformation and includes early site work
for the future aquatic center. Residents can expect to see immediate progress starting with
the mobilization of crews, safety fencing installation and demolition of the existing
sports courts.
While this work may temporarily limit access to certain areas, we want to assure our residents
that the park as a whole will remain open throughout the summer, fall and winter. The Community
Center and other amenities will reopen as demolition concludes, and we’ll provide weekly updates
via the Village Facebook page and East Palestine Information platforms.
Recent Progress Recap
Phase 1 has seen exciting developments in recent weeks:
- Sand volleyball court installation completed.
- New patio furniture installed and ready for use.
- Final light poles installed, trees cleared, topsoil spread.
- Court fencing, sidewalk finishing and dog park parking lot paving are underway.
- The amphitheater, while slightly delayed due to material sourcing, is expected to have a new timeline next week.
Village Manager Antonio Diaz-Guy also confirmed that memorial plaques, rocks and Rainbow Dreamland’s wooden memorial planks will be carefully preserved and respectfully relocated throughout the park after construction.
Phase 2 is currently projected to conclude by Summer 2026, bringing us another step closer to a fully modernized and inclusive recreational space for all residents to enjoy. This project hasn’t been without its challenges – from budget revisions to material delays – but thanks to ongoing collaboration between the village, community leaders and Norfolk Southern, real progress is happening. We remain committed to transparency and public input as the transformation continues.
Important Details for the Public
- Work Hours: Approximately 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Safety First: The construction area will be secured and off-limits to non-authorized personnel for safety reasons.
- Rainbow Dreamland Closure: As a safety precaution, Rainbow Dreamland will close on June 15 and remain closed throughout the duration of Phase 2. We know how much these spaces mean to residents, and we’re committed to preserving these memories while we update our facilities and build towards our future.
- Work Zones: The parking lot between the current tennis courts and the existing pool building will serve as the primary work and laydown area.
- Temporary Closures: Additional nearby facilities may be briefly closed as needed for safety during demolition.
Follow the Facebook page for more updates.