By Steve Bandy, Managing Editor of Crowley Post Signal
The citizens of Iota are beginning to see the fruits of their labors. For years, a volunteer committee has been holding fund raisers–pausing for COVID-19–in order to build the first-ever community park.
Carrie Leckelt, who chairs the all-volunteer group, explained they agreed to name the park Foret Park, after a family from Iota. The new green space is located on First Street near the volunteer fire department. The park includes two sets of playground equipment, a basketball court, a quarter-mile walking path and three small pavilions.
All of the funding for the park has come from donations and fundraisers, Leckelt said. Currently, some of the park equipment has been placed and a portion of the walking path has been installed.
Foret Park is expected to be opened by the end of the year. The park committee will be holding a Fall Festival on September 25 as a fundraiser to finish the park. The festival will have live music and will be “kid friendly,” Leckelt mentioned.
As a fundraiser for the park, Iota First is offering a “Buy-a-Park Brick” program. Donors can purchase a commemorative park brick for the entrance walkway. The inscribed bricks will be placed along the sides of the walkway.
“Purchasing a Park Brick is an easy way to leave a lasting family legacy and, at the same time, help pay for benches, tables and solar lighting for the walking path,” Iota First officials say.
For more information contact Leckelt or mail 560 S. Third Street, Iota 70543.
