JOPLIN, Mo. – A local park under construction is one step closer to breaking ground.
The soil for the future site of Hope Park has passed all necessary tests for substances such as lead – a requirement when building an outdoor area where children will be.
It's close to Joe Baker Stadium – on High Street in Joplin.
The park will feature a playground, walking trail, basketball court and pavilion.
It's all being organized by the Easttown Dreams District — and officials tell us this milestone allows them to begin the construction process — which is scheduled to begin at the end of summer or beginning of fall.
“It's for the kids. It's for the neighborhood. It's for. It's for the community. And anytime we can have a role in this city, in Joplin, that benefits the kids and benefits the neighborhood. It's a good thing,” said Melody Colbert-Kane, founder of the EastTown Dreams District. “.
The Easttown Dreams District hosts an annual Chicken Wing Cook-Off to help continue the growth of the park through event proceeds.
Melody tells us that on April 20 from 11am to 1pm at the Joplin Empire Market, participants can get 20 wings in a variety of flavors – for ten dollars.
Also coming – this year's Juneteenth celebration will be held in Hope Park and the surrounding area – a first for the event.
