Five finalists are competing to win the $100,000 Bobcat Park and Rec Makeover Contest, and public voting is now open to help determine the winner.
Bobcat Co., which launched the contest in mid-July by teaming up with brand ambassador and renovation expert Chip Gaines for a baseball field makeover in Waco, Texas, aims at inspiring communities to look for the potential in their hometown.
Hundreds of nominations were submitted from parks across 44 states. Finalists were determined in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) based on several criteria, including demonstrated need, sustainability impact and long-term community benefit.
The five finalists are:
- Aaron Perry Park in Pontiac, Michigan: Traditionally used for baseball and soccer, the park’s baseball fields have fallen into disrepair and are now unusable. The two baseball fields at the park require full restoration, with the goal of the Pontiac Youth Recreation Program using the space for its Youth Baseball Program.
- Chestnut Street Park in Henderson, North Carolina: Currently used for basketball games and community gatherings, the park lacks running water and permanent restrooms. The basketball court’s large cracks require significant repairs. If selected, the park will be enhanced to better accommodate family gatherings and community picnics, continuing its role as a vital community space.
- City of Purcell in Purcell, Oklahoma: The tennis courts at the Purcell Multi-Purpose Center require significant repairs, including resurfacing the courts and upgrading the outdated, maintenance-intensive lighting system. The city aims to revitalize the area with new surfaces, modern lighting and additional amenities to ensure a safe and accessible community space. Plans also include expanding the courts to accommodate pickleball.
- Ivan K. Hill Park in Winfield, Alabama: This multi-use park, featuring ballfields, playgrounds and a senior center, requires updates to improve safety and accessibility. Plans include replacing the original 1960s fencing and backstop and enhancing access to the fields and restrooms. The renovations aim to ensure long-term accessibility for both players and spectators.
- Jones Park in Galveston, Texas: Jones Park has long been neglected. It suffers from a lack of shade trees and frequent flooding, rendering it unusable for extended periods of time. The proposed overhaul includes a new basketball court, benches, sidewalks and trees or shade structures, creating a safer and revitalized space for the community with more options to escape the harsh sun.
“We are moved by the incredible stories from communities nationwide, which highlight the need for park improvements to create safe and accessible gathering spaces,” said Laura Ness Owens, Bobcat vice president of global brand and marketing. “Through this contest, we hope it inspires others to recognize opportunities within their own neighborhoods and find ways to give back.”
Voting is open through Oct. 3 at Bobcat’s Park and Rec Makeover Contest page on its website. Individuals can vote once per 24-hour period during the voting period. The winner will be announced in late October 2024, and the runner-up will receive a new Bobcat zero-turn mower.
