Riverfront Park Associates supporting improvements at Point Marion Park
Courtesy of Riverfront Park Associates
Editor’s note: This article is a part of Helping the Helpers, our annual series to raise awareness for nonprofits throughout the area.
For years, Point Marion Community Park has served as the venue for a number of volunteer-run events, among them the Albert Gallatin Regatta, Fall Fest and Santa in the Park.
While those have brought thousands to the park and created memories for all ages, members of the Riverfront Park Associates are now focused on improving the park’s amenities.
“Since we are now the nonprofit arm of the park, we’re trying to raise funds for grant matches for the larger projects in the park,” said Wendy Cottrell, secretary/treasurer for RFPA.
And there are many, said Cottrell.
The 14-acre park, located along the Monongahela River, needs new playground equipment, lighting and repairs to the 26-year-old boat dock, and revamped sports fields to bring T-ball, baseball and softball programs back.
The portion of the Sheepskin Trail in the park also needs to be paved to make it accessible for those with disabilities, she said. The trailhead in the park serves as the final one for the Sheepskin Trail before entering West Virginia.
Members of the RFPA know those improvements will come with a steep cost, so they’re reaching out to the community for support through fundraisers like bake sales and via donor letters.
“It’s frustrating when you’re so passionate about greenspace and our parks in the area,” said Cottrell. “You want to do so much more but it’s going to take the entire community.”
The nonprofit has also joined the Fayette Chamber of Commerce, where members are hoping to form partnerships with businesses and organizations that may help further their mission.
That’s already yielded some success, Cottrell said.
Volunteers with the Sheepskin Trail recently installed an e-bike charger and bike repair kit at the trailhead in Point Marion Community Park, and The National Road Heritage Corridor hosted a harvest festival there.
During the festival, members of RFPA were there to talk to the public about their vision for the park.
“There’s a sweet little spot there down by the river and we want to promote it,” Cottrell said.
To make a donation, sign up to volunteer or for more information, visit https://www.riverfrontparkassociates.org/.