New park opens on north side

The north side has a new park available to the public after a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the multimillion-dollar recreation area.

Praise Assembly cut the ribbon Sept. 8 on Northeast Community Park, which is located at 3535 N. Glenstone Ave. behind the church campus, according to a news release. Mayor Ken McClure and Greene County Presiding Commissioner Bob Dixon were among some 1,200 people at the ceremony.

The first two phases of Northeast Community Park have been completed with a total investment of more than $3.8 million, including property and improvements valued at $850,000, officials say.

“It was a beautiful day and a wonderful celebration of our community," said Alan Beauchamp, lead pastor at Praise Assembly, in the release. "We want to see neighbors knowing their neighbors in northeast Springfield. That’s what this park is about. It is a place for our community to gather, grow and get to know one another."

Northeast Community Park includes pickleball, basketball and sand volleyball amenities, according to Praise Assembly's website. Beauchamp said in an April park update that Praise Assembly is providing matching dollars from its general fund for donations to the park development from the community. A Facebook page has been set up for the park, as well.

Fundraising is underway for a $250,000 third phase that would add an accessible playground with a target date of late 2025, according to the release.

Greene County assessor records show the park real estate north of Interstate 44 is owned by Praise Assembly.