The City of Wheeling is the recipient of $280,119 distributed through the West Virginia Land and Conservation Fund Program that will be utilized to rehabilitate Edgington Lane Park in the City’s Woodsdale neighborhood.

Director of Parks & Recreation Rochelle Barry explained the project total is more than $500,000. There is a $250,000 local match which includes $100,000 from a donation, as well as gas and oil revenue.

“This project will help us increase the safety, quality and attractiveness of the park and playground amenities originally built in 1977,” said Barry. 

Barry explained the park is designed to be multi-generational play situated in the heart of the Woodsdale neighborhood. 

“Mulch will be removed, and a rubberized surface will be installed. Shade trees will be planted, and a new entrance will be developed. The project will feature a new children’s play area and renovations to the tennis and basketball court to improve existing amenities,” she said. “New amenities to suit the evolving needs of the community including the innovative Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course for moderate- to high-activity level recreation options. The shaded pavilion area and enhanced seating will meet the needs of identified low-activity user groups. Planning efforts will also beautify the area with new signage, fencing, landscaping elements, and new main and secondary entry gates."

Mayor Glenn Elliott said one of the reasons he first ran for local office was to ensure that our municipal parks and playgrounds were prioritized as necessary quality-of-life assets in our community.  

“During my nearly five years in office the City has done just that, investing heavily in park and playground enhancements across all six City wards.  With the large footprint and central location of the Edgington Lane Park, we knew we had a chance to do something special there.  And now with more than a quarter million dollars of federal grant money plus additional philanthropic donations, we are in a position to do just that,” said Elliott.

Ward 5 Councilman Ty Thorngate said Edgington Lane is one of the most frequently used playgrounds in the city and after years of planning and patience, the residents of Woodsdale are finally going to see a brand-new facility. 

“Thanks to $250,000 in federal grants and donation from a local organization, the city has the ability to deliver a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose park that can be enjoyed by children, parents and grandparents. I couldn’t be more excited for the future of Edgington Lane Park and the opportunities it’s going to bring for all of Ward 5,” said Thorngate.

The plan for the playground, developed by a master planner hired by the City, was the subject of a public hearing in the neighborhood in November 2019 and received excellent reviews. A resolution supporting the grant application  was approved by City Council in April 2020. According to the resolution, Edgington Lane Park, despite its small size, is a “staple of recreational activity and has an important place in the hearts of its neighbors.”

Vice Mayor Chad Thalman said the Edgington Lane playground brings back memories of his youth.

“This is a heavily used playground in the heart of Woodsdale. I have many memories playing on the basketball court when I was younger. This investment will ensure that future Wheeling residents will continue to be able to enjoy this facility,” said Thalman. 

The request for the grant funding, approved by the National Park Service, was supported by U.S. Rep. David McKinley. Barry noted grants like this have helped bring improvement projects to a number of parks throughout the City of Wheeling in the past.