SPRINGFIELD, Ga. ()– Effingham County’s Baker Park is set to offer some exciting new features, including a pickleball court, a floating dock, and upgraded restrooms, among other improvements.

The park, a cherished spot for the community, has been shut for roughly a year due to the renovation process. Effingham County City Manager Tim Callanan acknowledged these enhancements were long overdue.

“The park was in dire need of renovations, with facilities that were either outdated or in disrepair,” Callanan stated. “The tree roots around the trail system were causing disruptions. It was clear a significant update was needed, and we saw this as a chance not just to revamp the area but to enhance it significantly.”

While Baker Park is famous for its walking trails, Callanan noted that its potential extends far beyond that, with many other water and outdoor activities planned.

“We’re introducing pickleball courts, which have stirred a lot of excitement,” noted Callanan. “There will also be a paddleboat dock, making it easy for visitors to bring kayaks or paddleboards. We’re also adding new restrooms, paved parking, a dog park, and renovating the entire trail system.”

Callanan said all of the new renovations were made with the community’s needs in mind.

Surveys conducted by the county revealed that Baker Park is the second most popular park in the area, which came as a surprise to Callanan and his team.

The park renovations were funded through SPLOST funding, but before they received funding the county created a plan. The county said that allowed for them to get right to work when the funds came.

“We already started the design before we actually had the SPLOST approved,” Callahan said. We were able to start this one a little quicker and again, we’re, we’re hoping to start construction on three more renovations within the before the end of the year.”

Officials with Effingham County told the park is set to open in the fall. Once this project is completed, they said they’ll begin work on another park in county.