City park in need of repairs
The Highland County Press
As the city of Hillsboro administration moves forward on a new park ("plaza") project along Gov. Trimble Place adjacent to the Highland County Courthouse, the city park that was constructed in conjunction with the nation's bicentennial celebration in 1976 is in dire need of repairs.
The city park on Railroad Street – four blocks west of the proposed new park – was initially proposed in 1975.
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With strong support by former council member Dr. Walter H. Fenner, Hillsboro City Council moved forward with the project in February 1976, when it considered a lease agreement with the Norfolk and Western Railroad and the purchase of property from the Eads estate.
A $177,000 block grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development was earmarked for construction of the park.
The once-vibrant Railroad Street park has hosted numerous high school varsity tennis matches and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments. Previously, it also included a children's playground area, picnic tables and park benches, a water fountain, a vending machine and public restrooms.
Due to acts of vandalism, the vending machine and restroom facilities are no longer in service.
There are no nets on any of the tennis courts. In many areas, the court's surface is cracked and deteriorating. Trees and weeds are encroaching on both the tennis courts and basketball court on the north side. Litter is scattered throughout the park and parking area.
The city's property maintenance and restoration committee's next meeting for the Gov. Trimble Place park/plaza is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25 at the Hillsboro Firehouse. The Colony Theatre will also be on the the agenda, the city said.