Henke Development Group, the developer of Grand Park Sports Complex in Westfield, is planning an estimated $77 million investment on the city’s East side near US 31. The project would develop 16 out lots on land directly east of Darrough Chapel Park. The development would include new business, office, retail and restaurant space along with new hotels.

In addition to the private commercial development, an estimated $9 million development by the City of Kokomo would create eight new multi-purpose fields – four high school-sized and four youth league-sized at Darrough Chapel Park. The artificial turf fields would be arranged in two quad-plex, diamond-shaped setups with concessions and other amenities in the middle. Parts of Darrough Chapel Park would remain intact including the Veteran’s Memorial, located near the entrance of the park.

The Kokomo Parks & Recreation Department is celebrating Park and Recreation Month, an initiative of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and all the ways parks and recreation has the power to transform our daily lives.

Residents can help celebrate again this year by taking part in the “Play on Kokomo” photo contest. Take a photo at your favorite City of Kokomo Park, such as Highland Park, Kokomo Beach, Foster Park or any of the local trails, showing how you “get your play on.” Participants are asked to post photos to social media with the hash tag #PlayOnKokomo.

A new “Urban Plaza” skate park will be constructed in Foster Park near the playground area later this summer. The design of the 12,455 sq. ft. skate park will have a street skating feel and will be close to the Walk of Excellence.

“This additional amenity will be centrally-located and provide easy access to the trails, and other youth and family centered activities,” said Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight. “We have noticed an increase in skating activity and a transition to a more street style of skating in Kokomo. Building this in Foster Park will provide a quality venue for those wanting a street-style skate experience.”