The results are in…Obetz prepared to unveil “Junction Park.”
The City of Obetz is thrilled to announce the results of the resident and council votes for the new name for Lancaster Park: “Junction Park.” The City will host the Grand Opening for the newly remodeled Junction Park on Monday, August 19th, 2024, at 6PM. There were many quality suggestions for the new park name; but Junction Park won by a landslide. We are excited to have a park name that reflects our collective vision for the park’s future and marks a significant milestone in our community’s journey to build our future and honor our past.
Historical Significance of Junction Park
Junction Park holds a treasure trove of historical significance dating back over a century. Formerly known as Lancaster Park, it has been a focal point for community gatherings and leisure—hosting the annual Zucchinifest for years. Its historical roots run much deeper, intertwining with the development of the region’s early transportation infrastructure.
Originally a stagecoach junction, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Scioto Valley Traction Line established a significant railroad junction at what is now Junction Park. The rail line came from downtown Columbus and divided in downtown Obetz with one track heading to the City of Lancaster and the other heading to the City of Chillicothe. The rail line facilitated the movement of goods and enabled people to travel between communities with greater ease. The decision to rename the park to Junction Park is a deliberate effort to preserve and honor this historical heritage, chosen through a thoughtful process involving public input and votes from local officials.
Enhancements to Enrich Your Experience
Junction Park has undergone a significant transformation with various enhancements aimed at providing a more enjoyable and engaging experience for our visitors. Junction Park’s facelift includes a new game area, a play lawn, and an expansion of parking facilities to accommodate our growing community.
In response to community interest, we also installed several pickleball courts, comprehensive curb and sidewalk repairs, and permanent game tables for public enjoyment were also among the upgrades.
Phase II of the project will include burying the electric lines downtown, a new walking path, and the reconstruction of Lancaster street and sidewalk from roughly the K&M Market to Possum Holler Pizza.
Leave Your Mark with Commemorative Bricks
In partnership with the Obetz Historical Society, we are excited to offer commemorative bricks, allowing residents to leave a lasting tribute within the park. This initiative helps enrich the fabric of our town’s legacy, providing a unique way for families and individuals to become a permanent part of Junction Park.
We have installed the initial set of bricks in Junction Park. Beginning in October, the Obetz Historians, through the Obetz website, will sell additional bricks over the fall and winter. When the weather permits in the Spring of 2025, we will install the new bricks. We anticipate repeating that process over the years until all the bricks are sold. For timing , pricing, and ordering, keep an eye on Obetz’ website.
Junction Park Information
To ensure you can make the most of Junction Park, please note our seasonal operating hours:
- Summer (April 1 to November 30):
- Sunday to Thursday: Dawn to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday: Dawn to 11 PM
- Concessions and Rentals: Staffed from 11 AM to 9 PM
- Winter (December 1 to March 31):
- Monday to Friday: 5 PM to 8 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 11 AM to 7 PM
- Concessions and Rentals: Staffed Monday to Friday 5 PM to 8 PM and Saturday and Sunday 11 AM to 7 PM
You are welcome to bring your own equipment to use at the park. Obetz Black Card members will not be charged a rental fee, while Non-Black Card holders will have a rental fee for the following items:
- Bocce Ball – $5
- Checkers Set – $1
- Chess Set – $1
- Connect 4 – $1
- Pickleball set with ball – $5
- Additional ball – 25 cents
- Ping pong paddle set – $5
- Additional ping pong ball – 25 cents
- Foosball – $1
- Cornhole bags – $5
Junction Park Grand Opening Information
Join us on August 19th, 2024, for the grand opening at 6PM and experience firsthand the exciting upgrades and enhancements we’ve made. The first 50 Obetz Black Card holders to visit the concession stand after 6PM will receive a free pickleball set. In addition, there will be no rental fee on any equipment for the evening for all attendees.
Let’s create lasting memories and enjoy all that our beautiful park has to offer. We can’t wait to welcome you to the new and improved Junction Park!