With new parks coming soon to Prattville, and others improved, officials look at future Quality-of-Life projects
Article written by Sarah Stephens of Elmore Autauga News
With a beautiful weekend in store for our area, many residents may be headed out to one of our area parks for fresh air and exercise or simply taking in nature. In Prattville, there is a huge system of 24 overseen by the Parks and Recreation Department, directed by Kellie Carter.
The EA News recently sat down with Carter and Prattville Councilman Robert Strichik, on a sunny day by the beautiful fountain downtown. With a light breeze and a gorgeous view of the Mill Apartments and Autauga Creek, it was a great time to learn what is happening within the multitude of parks in Prattville.
Carter has worked for the City of Prattville for 16 years and was named Parks and Recreation Director in 2013. When you visit downtown Prattville during Christmas, Mardi Gras, other holidays, the creativity of what you find is within the mind of Carter and her amazing team. Carter’s department also helps with cultural arts and special events, parades, Creek Walk activities, and the Way Off Broadway Theatre.
Within Parks and Rec for Prattville there are 30 full-time employees, and an additional 100 seasonal employees during various times of the year.
Strichik serves as the board Chairman for the Prattville Parks and Recreation Committee for the Prattville City Council. He said that quality of life issues are high on the list for the Prattville City Council. Strichik said he has lived in Prattville for most of his life and has 40 years of experience dealing with the park system, athletics and most recently serving on the council. He admits he is passionate about promoting all Prattville has to offer and particularly in the way of parks and athletic facilities.
Over the past several years, the Prattville City Council has methodically and systematically been making improvements to area parks. While it may not be on the timeline everyone would prefer, it is a work in progress. At the last regular Council meeting this week, even more progress was approved.
Obvious signs of construction can be found at Spillway Park in historic downtown. Renovations and expansion began last week. Once complete, it will include an outdoor venue area for concerts, dinners and much more. There will be dedicated parking and public restrooms, a walking trail to connect to the 4th Street entrance and an observation deck and seating areas. Also included is a kids play area and food truck hookups, which means no more generators. The completion date is set for November of this year.