A group of residents from the Tri-Town area are trying to make a difference: Members of the Dickerson Run Community Recreation Association are looking to raise money to rehabilitate the Dickerson Run Community Playground and Ball Park.
The playground and park were built in 1948 when a group of soldiers returning from World War II and nearby families paid $400 for 4.4 acres on the former Rainey Coal Co. Tripple and Slag Dump. The plan was to develop the property into a family and community gathering place.
In 1992, the Dawson/Vanderbilt Lions Club became the steward of the property and coordinated efforts with the association to maintain the park for Little League practices, games and family picnics and gatherings.
Community leaders say it's a hidden treasure. But work needs to be done.
The association would like to purchase field maintenance supplies, landscape the park and pave the parking lot, along with other plans. The second phase of the project is to develop a recreation complex accessible to the public, including a walking and jogging path and batting cages.
The association is reaching out to state legislators, local businesses and residents to raise more than $100,000.
The initiative is applaudable and we encourage the community's support. These types of facilities are important to our youth and to the continued growth of our small Fay-West communities.
