You are here: / Front Page News /

Face Coverings Required

FACE COVERINGS ARE REQUIRED BY ALL ATTENDEES AT ALL PUBLIC FACILITIES!

Effective at 12:01 a.m. on July 12, 2020.

In accordance with Sullivan County Executive Order One, all businesses, organizations, or venues open to usage by members of the public in Sullivan County, Tennessee shall require the use of face coverings or masks by their employees and members of the public while inside their premises in areas accessible by the public.

NOTE: Cloth face coverings or masks should NOT be worn by children under two or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

Online Dog Park Registration Now Available!

GOOD NEWS!!

We are excited to announce new and existing members can now register for Kingsport’s DOGwood Park online!

Cost:

City Resident – $21.00 (1st Dog); $10 (per Additional Dog)
Non Resident – $26.00 (1st Dog); $15 (per Additional Dog)

*A merchant Fee of $3.00 Will be also be Applied to All Credit and Debit Card Payments.

How to register:

– Click here to access the eTrak online registration portal.

– Customers will be required to sign in. If you are a NEW member, you can create an account following the steps in the online portal. If you are an EXISTING member, please call the Kingsport Parks and Recreation office (423.224.2525) to acquire your login details.

– Follow the steps outlined in the registration process. Please note the release for liability and rules/regulations for use of the park.

– Once you have completed the checkout process, you will need to email [ParkRecAdmin@KingsportTN.gov] or fax [423.229.9362] a copy of the vaccination records from the Veterinarian office as well as a completed registration form. This form will be emailed to you following payment or you may download the form here.

NOTE: Dogs are required to have the following vaccinations: Distemper, Parvo, Bordetella, and Rabies.

Once you have completed payment and Parks and Recreation staff have received vaccination records, a Key card and Dog Tag will be mailed to you. EXISTING members should keep the same key card and the card will remain active. In the event your key card has become deactivated, please allow 3-5 business days for the card to become active. The new dog tag will be mailed to you.

If you have questions or concerns please call 423.224.2525. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we venture through this new process. Customers are still welcome to come into the office to register Monday – Friday (8am-5pm). Please do not bring your dog with you to register. Note, In accordance with Sullivan County Executive Order One, we require the use of face coverings or masks while inside the office.

Greenbelt Section Closure

UPDATE: Greenbelt Section Closure
 
The wastewater system repairs to the West Kingsport Pump Station and force main on Netherland Inn Road is taking longer than expected due to unforeseen issues. Therefore, the section of the Greenbelt just west of the foot bridge over Dry Hollow to the Ridgefield Bridge is still closed to foot and bike traffic until further notice.
 
As soon as these repairs are completed and the section reopens, we will make the announcement on our Facebook page as well as the Kingsport Parks and Recreation Website. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

——————————————————————————————————-

ORIGINAL RELEASE

Greenbelt Closure Notification: Netherland Inn Road between I-26 and Ridgefields Bridge

 

KINGSPORT, TN – The City of Kingsport is currently making critical wastewater system repairs to the West Kingsport Pump Station and force main on Netherland Inn Road.  Part of the nearly $6 million project is to excavate, install and backfill a new, larger force main from the pump station at the Ridgefields Bridge to the Waste Water Treatment Plant on Industry Drive.

During the next two months (May 26 to July 28), portions of the Greenbelt will be closed in stages near Boatyard Riverfront Park to support this construction as follows:

  • Stage 1: Closure of the Greenbelt to all foot and bike traffic from just West of the I-26 overpass to the walking bridge over Dry Hollow from May 26, 2020 to June 26, 2020.  Areas of the Greenbelt to the east and west of this area will remain open for use.

 

  • Stage 2: Closure of the Greenbelt northern path to all foot and bike traffic from just west of the foot bridge over Dry Hollow to the Ridgefield Bridge from June 29, 2020 to July 28, 2020.  During this time the Greenbelt, via the southern path at Boatyard Riverfront Park, will be fully open for east to west travel.

Automobile access to the parking area at Boatyard Riverfront Park will remain open throughout Stage 1 and Stage 2, except when the contractor is actually installing the force main across the entrance (1-2 days max).

Motorists, bicyclists, runners and walkers are urged to slow down, obey all warnings, detours and path closed signs, while also using extreme caution when traveling in this area.  If you have any questions, please call (423) 229-9454.

For more information, please visit www.kingsporttn.gov.

KPR Reopenings and Closures During COVID-19

Kingsport Parks and Recreation to Reopen Offices and Resume Rentals

 

On Monday, June 1, Kingsport Parks and Recreation offices will reopen and rentals will resume with limited capacity and social distancing guidelines. We encourage those wishing to reserve rental spaces to schedule an appointment to come into the office by calling (423) 229-9457.

Most parks along with the Kingsport Greenbelt have remained open to the public during the closure.
Playgrounds are now open and available for use as of May 22, 2020.
The Scott Adams Skate Park is now open and available for use as of June 3, 2020.

The following facilities and parks will remain CLOSED to the public until further notice:

  • Riverview Splash Pad
  • Outdoor Basketball Courts
  • Indoor Gymnasiums
  • Lynn View Community Center

*Please note, Centennial Park is open along with the restroom facility; however, the fountain IS NOT operational at this time.

We ask for your patience and understanding as we transition to the reopening phase. Citizens entering offices are encouraged to wear a mask. If you feel sick or are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, Kingsport Parks and Recreation asks for your safety, staff, and other visitors, do not visit at this time.

CANCELLED – KPR Summer Program

CANCELLATION OF KINGSPORT PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER PROGRAM

Kingsport, TN – The Kingsport Parks and Recreation department has made the difficult decision to cancel its Summer Program for 2020. While the decision is one out of caution for the safety and health of summer program participants, staff have come up with unique and fun ways kids can still get involved and have fun this summer!

“We realize a lot of kids look forward to summer camp with us every year and we know it is always important to engage in mental and physical activities,” said Parks and Recreation Program Administrator Renee Ensor. “We are excited to offer some new family oriented programs this year, which provide a variety of leisure time choices.”

Here are other programs your children can choose to take part in:

Summer Program in a Box

This box will include six themed weeks; each week will have games and crafts pertaining to that theme. The box will also include a t-shirt, water bottle, sunglasses and more! Every week the parks and recreation staff will have scheduled zoom calls with the kids to do some physical activities and games.

o Registration is required. Register online here.

o Fee: $20 per box (first child) / $15 per box for each additional child.

Pickleball

Outdoor pickleball will take place at the Borden Park court. We will have scheduled time slots on Mondays and Thursdays from 9am-1pm. Open to ages 14 and above. The scheduled time slots will not exceed more than 10 people and the parks and recreation staff will be disinfecting the pickle balls at the end of each time slot. Participants must bring their own paddles. To register you must call (423) 224-2489 or email ReneeEnsor@KingsportTN.gov.

NBA 2k

Staff will be hosting a virtual NBA 2k Summer League. There will be 3 Age Groups: 8-12; 13-18; 18 & Above. Participants must have their own gaming console and NBA 2k game. No equipment will be provided.

o Registration is required May 22 – June 14. To Register you must call (423) 343-9723 or email TravisSensabaugh@KingsportTN.gov.

o Fee: There is no fee to participate.

Fortnite Fridays

o Parks and Recreation staff will be hosting virtual Fortnite Fridays where participants will be able to play Fortnite games with others as well as Parks and Recreation Staff. For Ages 6-12. Participants must have their own gaming console and Fortnite game. No equipment will be provided.

o Registration is required May 22 – June 5. To Register you must call (423) 343-9723 or email TravisSensabaugh@KingsportTN.gov.

o Fee: There is no fee to participate.

Travel Trainer

Parks and Recreation staff will be going throughout different communities to bring the workout to you. Staff will be doing simple fitness instruction and all equipment will be provided. Classes will not exceed more than 10 people and the staff will designate spots for participants that will meet the 6 feet distancing guidelines. For more information on dates, times, and locations, Contact (423) 343-9723 or email TravisSensabaugh@KingsportTN.gov.

Additional programs for disc golf, archery, tennis, walking, cornhole toss, nutrition, health/wellness and much more will be offered later this summer. Stay tuned and check out Kingsport Parks and Recreation on social media for more information about these exciting opportunities!

COVID-19 Update – Parks & Recreation Facilities/Programs

UPDATE (April 3, 2020) – KINGSPORT PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITY CLOSURE

At the recommendation of the CDC and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, and to follow the lead of the Kingsport City Schools, the City of Kingsport has decided to extend the closure of Parks and Recreation facilities to the public indefinitely.

All programs and classes remain postponed until further notice.

Other updates include:

• All playgrounds and play equipment in city parks are closed until further notice.

• Scott Adams Skatepark is closed until further notice.

• Online registration has been extended to Monday, April 13 for the following programs: Adult Softball, 11-12 Boys Baseball, 13-15 Boys Baseball and 13-15 Girls Softball. If you have any problems registering online, please email Debbie Cutshall at DebbieCutshall@KingsportTN.gov or call 423-229-9460.

• Summer Program registrations originally slated to begin April 6 has been postponed until further notice.

Continue to visit kingsporttn.gov for all up-to-date information regarding City of Kingsport facilities and the response to COVID-19.

————————————————————

PREVIOUS RELEASE (March 18, 2020) – KINGSPORT PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES

At the recommendation of the CDC and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the City of Kingsport will close the Civic Auditorium, Allandale Mansion, Lynn View Community Center, V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex, Brickyard Park, Eastman Park at Horse Creek, Lynn View Athletic Fields, and Domtar Park, effective 5 p.m. on Thursday March 19, 2020 until further notice.  All associated rentals of these facilities, classes, programs and events managed through Kingsport Parks and Recreation are also suspended indefinitely.

At this time, community parks and trails are open to the public dawn to dark.

Parks and Recreation staff will remain available by email and phone.

*Kingsport Dog Park – The Dog Park will remain open daily to members from dawn to dark. However, with the Civic Auditorium closure effective 5 p.m. Thursday, March 19th, new and renewing registrations will not take place during this time. Should any issues arise with Dog Park operations, please contact the Kingsport Parks and Recreation department.

This information is subject to change as the city continues to monitor the evolving situation surrounding COVID-19.
Kingsport looks to the SCHRD and the CDC for recommendations and additional information.

For up-to-date information on the city’s response to COVID-19, please visit kingsporttn.gov.

PREVIOUS RELEASE (March 16, 2020) – KINGSPORT PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS

Effective March 16, 2020 all city-sponsored programs, classes and events at Parks and Recreation Facilities are suspended until further notice. This includes Spring Break Camp, Homeschool Physical Education Classes, Start Smart Soccer, Community Inclusion Class, and all Athletic programs.

At this time, all Parks and Recreation facilities (Allandale Mansion, Civic Auditorium, Lynn View Community Center, and V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex)  will remain open. This is subject to change as the city receives further recommendations from the Sullivan County Regional Health Department and the CDC.

Thank you for your understanding as we do our part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City to Suspend All Facility Programs and Classes

All city-sponsored programs, classes and events suspended indefinitely

KINGSPORT, TN – As of noon today, March 16, all city-sponsored programs, classes and events have been suspended indefinitely. This decision comes from City Manager Chris McCartt at the recommendation of the CDC and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department.

As of this statement’s release, all city facilities will remain open under normal operating hours. Any programs open to the public are suspended until further notice. Staff will attempt to reschedule any paid programs and honor tickets that have already been sold. Any customer who wishes to cancel should reach out to the respective facility.

This information is subject to change as the city continues to monitor the evolving situation surrounding COVID-19. Kingsport looks to the SCRHD and the CDC for recommendations and additional information.

Facility List

  • Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: The park will remain open, but all programs—planetarium shows, astronomy programs, nature program, etc.—are suspended.
  • Kingsport Aquatic Center: The facility will remain open, but all swim lessons, water aerobics classes, training courses and other programs are suspended.
  • Kingsport Carousel: The carousel will follow its current operating schedule.
  • Kingsport Farmers Market: The market will delay its opening until Saturday, May 2.
  • Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts: All programs and classes are suspended.
  • Kingsport Public Library: The library will remain open, but all programs, classes and club meetings are suspended.
  • Kingsport Parks and Recreation: All of Kingsport’s parks will remain open to the public, but all programming including athletics are suspended. Open gym hours at Lynn View Community Center and the V.O. Dobbins Center are also suspended.
  • Kingsport Senior Center: All programs and classes are suspended, but the lounge and other facility spaces will remain open. The Renaissance Center’s open gym hours are also suspended.

Rental Recommendations
At this time, the city is not canceling any rentals within the above facilities, but urges citizens to follow CDC guidelines. As of March 15, the CDC recommends that for the next eight weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events of more than 50 people, according to cdc.gov. If anyone who has already booked a rental has questions or wishes to cancel, please reach out to the facility directly.

For up-to-date information on the city’s response to COVID-19, please visit kingsporttn.gov.

Safer at Home Order – City Playgrounds Closed

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Adrienne Batara

423-440-0442

adriennebatara@kingsporttn.gov

City Playgrounds Closed per Safer at Home Order

 

KINGSPORT, TN – Per the Executive Order from Governor Lee and at the decision of the City of Kingsport officials, playgrounds within the city will be closed beginning April 1, 2020. The playgrounds will be closed until further notice.

City park spaces, including Bays Mountain Park and the Greenbelt, will remain open and residents are encouraged to visit in small groups and continue practicing social distancing.

Kingsport would like to remind all residents to continue to follow the best practices, including washing hands correctly and as often as possible, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth, leaving home only for necessary trips and of course practicing social distancing in public spaces.

For more information, please visit www.kingsporttn.gov/covid-19-response.

Using Parks and Open Space While Maintaining Social Distancing

Concerns about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak continue to grip our nation. As organizations that support the power of parks and open spaces as essential resources for health and wellness, we understand that people may have questions and concerns about visiting their local parks, trails or open spaces at this time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has flagged mental health as a top concern associated with the COVID-19 outbreak. We recognize that social distancing may take a toll on our mental health, especially during high-stress and anxiety-producing global public health emergencies. We also know that parks provide a connection to the outdoors and green space as well as opportunities for physical activity which studies demonstrate reduces stress and improves mental health.

We believe that many parks, trails and open spaces can continue to be used in a safe manner that allows people to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide. In all instances, we recommend people follow local, state and national ordinances and guidelines regarding the use of these spaces and recognize that these vary from community to community.

In places where there are no restrictions on the use of local parks, trails and open spaces, we encourage all users to follow these recommendations:

  • Refrain from using parks or trails if they are exhibiting symptoms.
  • Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during use of parks or trails.
  • Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.
  • While on trails, warn other users of their presence and as they pass, and step aside to let others pass.
  • Follow CDC guidance on the recommended size of social gatherings including outdoor picnicking, pick-up sports and other group hangouts, and maintain proper physical distance at all times.
  • Observe CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals at all times. If this is not possible, users should find an alternate location or depart that space.
  • Consult their local and state ordinances and guidelines for the most up to date recommendations on park and trail use.

We encourage local jurisdictions to keep parks, trails and open spaces accessible as long as it is safe to do so.

Our local parks, trails and open spaces have always served as places where people can find respite and seek peace and restoration. During this time of uncertainty, these places are needed now more than ever. Our nation’s park and recreation professionals are working hard to maintain these spaces and keep them safe, accessible and benefiting our communities during these challenging times. Let us all do our part to use them in a way that respects each other and public health guidance.

About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to parks and recreation for health, conservation and social equity. Through its network of 60,000 recreation and park professionals and advocates, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org.

Kingsport Parks and Recreation Survey

Kingsport Parks and Rec Survey

If you want to help shape the future of Kingsport Parks and Recreation, including parks, programs and more. Please take a few minutes and fill out a quick survey! Click Here 

Passport to the Parks

WHAT IS PASSPORT TO THE PARKS?

Passport to the Parks is a program developed specifically for Visit Kingsport where families can find information and activities about area Kingsport Parks. This will be a fun and engaging way for families to spend time together, exercise, and learn all about what Kingsport has to offer. We want families to spend the day exploring a park, completing challenges, and collecting rubbings from medallions located at specified parks.

Collect five rubbings and visit any participating Passport to the Park Partner to receive your prize.

Collect all nine and spell out the word in the back and you will be entered to win our grand prize!

Have fun and good luck exploring!

Now Accepting Youth Baseball-Softball Registrations for Spring 2020!

*Participants must live inside Kingsport City limits, attend Kingsport City Schools, and/or own Kingsport City property in order to participate.

Please notice the registration deadlines:

MARCH 2nd = Boys Ages 5-10; Girls Ages 5-12

MARCH 30th = Boys Ages 11-15; Girls Ages 13-15

To register online, click  HERE.

Spring Break Camp

Kingsport Parks and Recreation will be offering Spring Break Camp that coincides with the Kingsport City School Academic Calendar.

Join us as we enjoy games, sports, crafts, movie time, and more!

Lunch and snack is not provided and will need to be packed each day.

For more information, please call (423) 224-2489 or (423) 343-9723.

Kingsport Breaks Ground on Miracle Field Project

The support for the Kingsport Miracle Field project has been nothing short of amazing.

Read More at Kingsport Times-News Online

Greenbelt Extension to Cleek Road Set for Completion This Month

Recently a grant from the Tennessee Department of Transportation allowed the city to make plans to lengthen the trail by about a mile on the Exchange Place side. Since April, these plans have been put into action, with the project expected to be completed this month.

When construction is finished, walkers will have the option to forgo the large gravel hill approaching Exchange Place and opt for a less strenuous stroll to Cleek Road. The new section of the trail will include a deck similar to others on the Greenbelt and will meander through the trees before ending at Cleek Road

Read More at Kingsport Times-News Online

Clean Sweep Kingsport Event!

Join us as we “Clean Sweep Kingsport”!

Date: Saturday, October 12, 2019

Time:  9am – Noon

Locations:

  • Kingsport Greenbelt – Meet at Parking Lot Adjacent to PetsMart
  • Holston River – Meet at Rotherwood Bridge Access Point on Greenbelt.

For more information, Call 392-8814 or Email rcleary@kingsportchamber.org

Event is sponsored by: Keep Kingsport Beautiful, BAE Systems, Eastman Credit Union, & Ballad Health.

Kingsport covers funding gap to allow Miracle Field project to proceed

KINGSPORT — Construction of the Miracle Field project will begin in the near future thanks to action taken by the city last week.

During a recent Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting, elected officials unanimously approved an amendment to the lease agreement for the old General Shale property. The Kingsport Economic Development Board — the economic development arm of the city — owns the property and is leasing it back to the city.

The amendment calls for annual payments from the city to the KEDB for up to $214,000 a year for 10 years. However, based on donations received for the Miracle Field project, the payments are expected to be more in the neighborhood of $135,000 a year for 10 years.

Read more at Kingsport Times-News Online

Kingsport Veterans Memorial receives new sentinel

By Matthew Lane
KINGSPORT — A new sentinel now stands watch over the Kingsport Veterans Memorial.

This statue marks the second sentinel to be placed in the memorial. The first one, placed two years ago, was quickly removed soon after Veterans Day when many local veterans said it resembled a Chinese soldier.

Click here for full story.

Buffalo Grasslands Boardwalk Dedication

Buffalo Grasslands Boardwalk Dedication

Join us and celebrate the Greenbelt’s newest addition

 

KINGSPORT, TN – The outdoor trail that connects one end of Kingsport to the other has a new addition – the Buffalo Grasslands Boardwalk. Join us for a dedication on November 30 at 11:00 a.m. The boardwalk is located at the Greenbelt access point of Indian Trail Drive Trailhead, which is behind PetSmart.

 

The wooden boardwalk, built with uniquely treated Eastman A wood, is a quarter mile loop located in a wetlands marsh. The elevated walkway design allows the Reedy Creek floodwaters to pass under it while providing local wildlife, such as birds, frogs, and insects, a good home. Birdwatching is a popular hobby that can be done from just about anywhere on the boardwalk.

 

The project was partially funded through a Recreation Trails Program Grant of $120,000. These grants are administered by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.

 

Spoden and Wilson Consulting designed and engineered the boardwalk, while Building Character was the construction contractor. The boardwalk is ADA compliant.

For more information, please visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

Please Don’t Feed Waterfowl

Kingsport Parks & Recreation needs your help!

Please stop feeding ducks and shore birds on the Greenbelt and in all city parks. Although this seemingly generous act may be enjoyable, the effects can be harmful or fatal to them. It can result in un-natural feeding habits, overcrowding, and pollution of rivers and streams as well as increasing the likelihood of them being hit by a car.

Thank you for your assistance in ensuring that our outdoor areas can continue to be enjoyed by both people and wildlife.

2018 Fun Fest Volleyball Competition

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Photos from the final competition of the Fun Fest Volleyball Competition at Eastman Park on Sunday, July 15th, 2018.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1531784488484-02730136-11c3-5″ include=”2617,2616,2615,2614,2607,2608,2609,2610,2611,2612,2613,2606,2605,2604,2603,2602,2601,2600,2599,2598,2597,2596,2595,2594,2593,2592,2591,2590,2589,2588,2587,2586,2585,2584,2583,2582,2581,2580,2579,2578,2577″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Photos – Borden Park Ribbon Cutting

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The City of Kingsport and area/regional organizations came together on Tuesday, July 11th for a ribbon-cutting for the new Borden Park playground and shelter.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1531784119864-fef23ea3-af51-9″ include=”2679,2677,2676,2671,2670,2669,2667,2664,2663,2662,2661,2660,2659,2658,2657,2656,2654,2645,2648,2642,2638,2635,2630,2629,2627,2622,2619″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Public Notice: Proposed Grant Application

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: To all citizens of the City of Kingsport, Tennessee, to all persons interested, and the public at large the Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department will host a series of Public Meetings to present information and gather input for a proposed grant application, through the State of Tennessee local Parks and Recreation fund, for improvements to Borden Park and Preston Forest Park.

The meetings will be on the following dates:

March 16, 2018, at City Hall Council Room at Noon,
March 19, 2018, at V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex Douglas Room at 6:00 p.m.
and April 2, 2018, at the Civic Auditorium Conference Room at 5:30 p.m.

All interested persons are invited to attend these meetings.  Additional information concerning this project and the meetings may be obtained by contacting City of Kingsport, Parks and Recreation.

Manager, Kitty Frazier at (423) 229-9408.

City of Kingsport, Tennessee
Jim Demming, City Recorder
P1T 4/24/16

New Construction – Greenbelt Wetlands Boardwalk and Reedy Creek Bridge

You may see some new construction happening on the Greenbelt this fall. We can’t wait to cut the ribbon on these two projects that have been in the works for some time now.

Near PetsMart, The Greenbelt will open a new Wetlands Boardwalk soon. This looping trail will be a scenic overview of our natural wetlands and will feature an accessible boardwalk that wraps around the nature preserve and an alternate path next to the west end.

You’ll also notice a brand new bridge connecting the Reedy Creek Terrace parking lot behind Golden Corral.

Watch for announcements coming soon.

Kingsport Wetland Boardwalk

Borden Park Ribbon Cutting – Photo Gallery

Here’s a look back at our celebration of the new Borden Park Ribbon Cutting on October 6th, 2017. Kingsport Mayor John Clark, members of the Board of Mayor and Alderman and our favorite Borden Park Centenarian joined us for a great day for Kingsport Parks.

A look back at Fun Fest 2017

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”2017 Fun Fest X-Treme Showdown” google_fonts=”font_family:Cabin%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C500%2C500italic%2C600%2C600italic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][vc_gallery interval=”5″ images=”1865,1855,1831,1827,1805″ img_size=”full”][vc_column_text]The Fun Fest X-Treme Showdown is a popular event involving both skateboarders and BMX bikers competing in various skill level competitions for prizes.  This extreme sporting event was held on Saturday July 15th from 6p.m.-8p.m. at Scott Adams Memorial Skatepark.

Winners included;

Skate Winners
Beginner- Tanner Hatfield
Intermediate- Cole Morton
Advanced- Jalen Burgess

Bike Winners
Advanced- J.R. Henry
Beginner- Mason Malcolm

Gallery Photos Below…[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Talk a Walk in Kingsport Parks – Video

Obesity is a problem that affects 17% of all children and more than 38% of citizens of Kingsport. To fight this problem – the answer is simple and right around the corner. Please enjoy this new video from the National Parks and Recreation and get out and enjoy yourself.

Take a trip along The Greenbelt

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]One of Kingsport’s favorite spots to fish, walk, run, stroll, skate and bike – it’s hard to pick a favorite. Come along for this video tour of The Greenbelt. Produced by TheNet360, this video captures some of the essence of Kingsport’s 9 mile linear walking path. So tie up your shoes and come along with us and share the video with your friends.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/Wc_E0wKE-EY”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Borden Park to receive major upgrades

By MATTHEW LANE • JUL 5, 2016 AT 1:13 PM Original Story

mlane@timesnews.net

Screen Shot 2016-07-30 at 11.29.14 PMKINGSPORT — One of Kingsport’s oldest parks, located in the heart of the Borden community, will be getting a major upgrade during the next three years. Kingsport has been awarded a $450,000 grant from the Tennessee Department of Health for Project Diabetes. The grant provides $150,000 a year for three years and has no matching portion. The statewide grant was competitive, and ultimately, the funds are meant to help reduce diabetes and obesity and improve wellness initiatives within the community. Kingsport submitted a proposal for the grant and was screened by state officials, who then invited the Model City to submit a full application. According to information provided to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, Kingsport was one of 20 projects awarded a grant from more than 100 applicants and the only one in upper East Tennessee. Kitty Frazier, parks and recreation manager for the city, said the grant will be used for infrastructure improvements at Borden Park. “We have three phases, with the first year we’ll be putting in a walking trail around the park, upgrading the area where the basketball court is, then probably replacing one of the water fountains with a new one and refill station,” Frazier said. “Then, the second and third year will be separate phases of playground equipment, either an expansion, extension or a new unit.” In addition to the infrastructure improvements, Frazier said as part of the commitment to the project, the city will do things in the Borden neighborhood to help increase the usage of the 18-acre park. These steps will not be funded by the grant and could include things like offering classes on diabetes prevention and health awareness and fitness programs at the park or creating a walking club. “Those aren’t defined yet, but we will definitely be doing some programming to help get the park utilized more and the neighborhood involved,” Frazier said, adding the city plans to partner with entities like Healthy Kingsport, the Boys and Girls Club and local health care agencies to help with the education and programming aspect of the project. Borden Park is approximately 18 acres and is one of the most wooded parks in the city. What helped Kingsport in its application for the grant was the fact that Borden Park already has a number of amenities, like the playground equipment, walking paths, tennis and basketball courts and an 18-hole disc golf course. “It’s not like we were starting from scratch,” Frazier said. “We’ll be able to use this money to enhance the park and make it better.” The BMA is expected to approve the grant on second reading next week. Frazier said construction may begin in late fall, but more likely in early spring. The first phase of work must be done by June 2017.

Stepping it up – Civic Auditorium gets new flooring

Screen Shot 2016-08-07 at 2.46.16 PM MATTHEW LANE • AUG 6, 2016 AT 8:30 PM KINGSPORT — If you can get 40 years out of your floors, you’re probably doing pretty well, especially if millions of feet have walked, run and danced across them every day for decades on end. The Kingsport Civic Auditorium recently received an upgrade to its main auditorium — a new polyurethane athletic surface that city officials say should last for decades to come. “We are very excited to be replacing the current floor with new synthetic sports flooring,” said Parks & Recreation assistant manager Robin DiMona. “The new flooring will really improve the aesthetic look.” The Civic Auditorium is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Opening to the public in 1940, the facility houses the administrative offices of the Parks and Recreation Department along with the athletics office. More than 200 events are held each year in the main 800-seat auditorium, from wedding receptions and reunions to concerts, dances and job fairs, sporting activities, wrestling events, book fairs and gun shows. “It was seamed, but very functional, and it’s held up very well,” DiMona said. Last month a two-man crew from Dynamic Sports of Texas came to the Civic Auditorium, placed a small pad over the old flooring and then poured polyurethane over it. DiMona said the old flooring was not pulled up. “We had the auditorium down for two weeks, and then we left it to cure for a week. All in all, it took three weeks,” DiMona said. “We had to do a little work with the thresholds, but it’s worked out rather nicely, and it makes the room look really large and a lot cleaner.” The cost of the new flooring was $63,000. Dynamic Sports will return to the Model City next week for additional maintenance training with Parks and Recreation maintenance staff to make sure everyone works hard to keep the new flooring nice and clean. “We’ll be doing some more painting, cleaning the curtains and a few more things, like buying some new chairs,” DiMona said. City Manager Jeff Fleming said the upgrade to the flooring was long overdue. “This is a prime example of keeping an aging facility fresh and current,” Fleming said. “It’s truly a community space in every sense.” For rental information, contact the Civic Auditorium at (423) 229-9457.

We reserve the right to use photos or videos taken of visitors at our facilities or events for publicity purposes. Always lock your vehicles and remove valuables from view, we are not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen property. Fees and hours are subject to change.

© 2024 - Kingsport Parks and Recreation is a department of the City of Kingsport, Tennessee. Visit www.kingsporttn.gov. Website by Six Rivers Digital.