Although its name, Project 1107, may require some explanation for those who are not familiar with it or from here, the positive impact this initiative will have on the community will speak for itself.

The Greater Clark Foundation announced earlier this week they have chosen a design-build firm to develop the former Clark Regional Medical Center site into a first-class community park and activity center that will have a significant impact on the surrounding neighborhoods and the entire county.

This moves the project, which we believe will create the type of safe, family-friendly recreation area that will draw people to Winchester, closer to reality.

Plans call for transforming nearly 30-acres of land into a park that will establish a legacy of well-being in Clark County.

There are so many things about this project that are exciting, not the least of which is that it repurposes property that has already had a significant impact on the community for decades.

The park will include a two-acre children’s playspace, trails, native plants and large lawns, and will also champion Clark County’s history and culture. Besides these soon-to-be visible parts of the project, the behind-the-scenes work going on at the site has its positive impacts on the environment, as well. Several projects were completed over the past couple years to prepare for construction, including removal of several buildings, soil testing, land and tree surveys, and elimination of invasive vegetation.

Most impressive is that, while this park stands to draw visitors from the region, it will be the culmination of tremendous community input. More than 200 people, including 25 children involved in the youth-led design of the children’s play area, have had a part in this project.

It shows that Clark County and its organizations are committed to neighborhood revitalization efforts and positioning itself for growth and prosperity that comes when infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements make a region a popular destination to raise a family.

We appreciate the vision of GCF that has built the basis for this project that can truly become a beacon of exercise, activity and wellness here in the county.