Kingsbury Riverfront Park Revitalization
About
In 2023, the City of Defiance will complete the revitalization of Kingsbury Riverfront Park that began in 2021. In late summer 2021, the city converted the broken-up tennis courts into pickleball courts. The ball diamond was renovated in 2021 as well. Kingsbury Pool, the only public pool in Defiance, has been updated with some new equipment, but needs additional new equipment and new site furnishings. In 2023, the pool buildings will be repainted. New park signage will be installed to match the other city parks signage.. There are 6 shelter houses at this park that are rented a majority of weekends and many weekdays throughout the warmer months. These structures need to be restained and their concrete floors resurfaced. New picnic ADA-compliant picnic tables are needed. The playground needs to be updated, ADA compliant, and inclusive. There is no sidewalk leading from the parking lot to the equipment, only grass. The new design will be ADA compliant and include a concrete sidewalk from the parking areas to the new playground and the shelters. There are also plans to resurface the existing basketball court and add lighting to this area as well. New river swings similar to those at Pontiac Park and the Fort Grounds will be added along the rivers’ edge for enjoyment.
Funding sources: ODNR NatureWorks Program funds in the amount of $49,836; Defiance Area Foundation grant of $20,000; CDBG monies in the amount of $147,000; and, State Capital Appropriations money in the amount of $150,000.The City of Defiance will be responsible for the balance of costs on this project.
