Johnson City Parks and Recreation Special points of interest: ~ Parks and Rec Bounces Back in 2021 ~ Administration Highlights ~ Athletic Division Highlights
~ Park Services Division Highlights ~ Golf Division Highlights ~ Recreation Services Division
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Parks and Rec Bounces Back in 2021 Heading into 2021, Johnson City Parks and Recreation was determined to become stronger than before the pandemic, and we certainly appear to be on course. In April, a measured, multi-phased reopening of Memorial Park Community Center, Carver Recreation Center and Langston Centre began based on stringent guidelines aimed at safely allowing activities to resume. Carver began a major transformation that resulted in the addition of a new, state-of-the art splash pad and a completely upgraded Carver Community Gardens. The splash pad dedication was followed by a rush of Parks and Recreation summer camp kick-offs, pool and splash pad openings, team sports and other activities, helping move enthusiastic community members of all ages outdoors.
Winged Deer Park came to life this summer with several major tournaments, including the Future Stars of Sports World Series, which sported 76 teams from 13 states featuring 10U, 12U, 14U and a high school division. The USA Girl’s 14U Class “A” National Championships followed bringing more than 70 teams. Johnson City Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Brenda Whitson estimated the total economic impact of the two tournaments at more than $7.2 million. The 18-hole Winged Deer Park Disc Golf Course hosted play for the well-received and well-attended 2021 Pro Masters Disc Golf World Championships. Both the Lakeside Concert Series and Bert Street Music Series also drew robust numbers, with many new faces expressing their happiness about getting out and seeing friends. As 2021 began to come to a close, Parks and Recreation’s traditional Halloween events were celebrated with a few restrictions. MPCC’s Super Spooky Saturday and Pups & Trucks Trunk or Treat drew unexpectedly ample numbers as did Carver’s annual Halloween Festival. The Johnson City Senior Center Foundation’s Paddles Up! Indoor Pickleball Tournament also bounced back strongly in 2021, as that sport continues to expand. There’s a lot to be thankful for and a lot to look forward to in 2022. We hope you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.