City Park

City Park. Liberty, Missouri. , In September 1948, the Clay County Horse Show Association needed a facility to host their annual shows. In cooperation with the Liberty Chamber of Commerce, they proposed) purchasing a 12 acre tract that would be deeded to the city as a park. In exchange, the association would use the grounds for its horse shows one week each year., The proposal was contingent upon voters passing a $35,000 bond issue for equipment and improvements to the property. A special election was held, and the bond issue passed on November 5, 1948. Thus, Liberty's first park was born and aptly named "City Park.", Over the next two years, the land was developed with a shelter house, two horse barns, signage, landscaping, and ball fields with bleachers and lighting., City Park became a hub of activity, hosting Scouting events, baseball and softball games, and social gatherings of all kinds. In the early 1950s, a kiddie pool became a popular addition., The park also served as the site for holiday celebrations. Fourth of July fireworks were viewed from the bleachers, and Halloween was celebrated with costume contests. Popcorn and hot dog stands could be found throughout the park., The horse barns were eventually converted into a repair garage and equipment sheds for the parks maintenance division. The park office and maintenance facilities were moved into a building designed and constructed by park staff in 1972., City Park continued to grow and develop over the next several decades. In 1976 a tract of land across Terrace Avenue and adjacent to the city-owned Fairview/New Hope Cemeteries was acquired. Four years later, new playground equipment was installed near the park entrance. In 2001 the wading pool was converted into a sprayground. And in 2018 a final piece of property at the end of Terrace Avenue was added., Major renovations in 2021 added a zero-entry sprayground, a new playground with hill slides and a toddler area, additional picnic spots and more parking. The renovation included several all-ability features, such as sensory elements and assistive mobility play structures and swings. A new maintenance facility was constructed that same year on the east side of the park utilizing the property across Terrace Avenue., City Park has been a center of recreation for Liberty residents and visitors since its inception. The horse barns gave way to more modern features, but the spirit of City Park as a place for outdoor fun endures. In an ever-expanding park system, it remains Liberty's signature park., Historical content provided by Chery Holtman, curator of the Clay County Historical Society and Museum, and by the Clay County Archives and Historical Library