The ribbon is cut, and the kids are playing at Madison Avenue Central Park. And what a park it is!

The one-of-a-kind playground introduces new activities to Derby and is accessible to people of all abilities, including those in wheelchairs or with autism. Play chess on the patio or get wet in the splash pad—yes, adults are allowed to have fun too.

If ever there was a park that is much more than its playground, this is it.

The Pavilion is open daily to the public (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) to enjoy lunch or play bridge, unless posted as reserved for an event. We already have hosted a wedding in this brand new building and sure are glad it’s air conditioned and heated for year-round comfort. Some brides are using this building for the ceremony and then moving next door to the Venue for the reception and dinner.

If you’ve only seen the park from Madison Avenue, it’s time you drove Westview Drive after dark to take in the gorgeous view of the water features and Pavilion. Then park the car for an evening stroll. This park is well lit and provides comfortable walking for people who work second or third shift. The east side walking path is ¼ mile (inner loop) or the outer loop is ½ mile starting and ending at the parking lot.

Spoiler alert: Your visit to Central Park is not complete until you have ventured back into the playground area to view “Earth Home,” an original sculptural wall mural by Tina Murano (Murano Studios of Wichita). It features burrowing animals playing with vintage toys among tree roots. Don’t let those kids in the playground deter you—you have to get up close to really appreciate the intricacies of Tina’s masterpiece.

Many thanks to the forward-thinking Derby community for supporting this park with your tax dollars and for voting in 2013 for the Derby Difference Sales Tax so this park could be built. With your help, my colleagues and I vow to take good care of this precious park in the heart of our city.

Robert Mendoza
Director of Public Works

Published in the Derby Informer on Oct. 19, 2016.