The Parks Insider

  On October 5th, Little Rock Parks & Recreation hosted Logan's Run at Murray Park—an emotional event dedicated to the memory of Logan Bussard, a beloved Therapeutic Recreation Specialist whose passion for inclusion continues to inspire our community. This non-competitive event provided children and young adults, ages 5-25, with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities the opportunity to run, walk, or roll toward a personal goal. Participants and their families also enjoyed Scout's Fun Zone, a joyful space with games and activities celebrating the spirit of community and togetherness. A Celebration of Inclusion 🌟 Logan's Run served as the kickoff to the All-Abilities Division of the Little Rockers Kids Marathon, offering participants a safe and supportive way to engage in the marathon experience. Between now and race weekend on March 1-2, 2025 , participants will complete 25.2 miles at their own pace, finishing the final mile on the official marathon cour

  On September 28th, Little Rock residents came together for an incredible National Public Lands Day (NPLD) event led by our dedicated Volunteer Programs Coordinator, Karen Sykes. This day of service was more than just a cleanup—it was about restoring community, reclaiming spaces, and reconnecting with nature. A Day of Impact 💪 One hundred fourteen volunteers made a significant difference that day, logging 189.5 hours of service and removing an impressive 6,300 pounds of litter from Rock Creek Trail and surrounding areas. This event represented something more significant than numbers - it marked the reopening of a cherished city space impacted by the 2023 tornado. Rock Creek Trail, a vital recreational space in West Little Rock, had been severely damaged, with fallen trees and debris blocking access for months. Thanks to the hard work of volunteers and city staff, this trail is now ready to welcome visitors once again. Leaders and Community Builders 🗣️ The event began with heartfelt

At this year's Arkansas Recreation & Parks Association (ARPA) Annual Conference, the City of Little Rock Parks & Recreation team took center stage with three prestigious awards! 🌟 Our talented staff and exceptional programs were honored during the conference's banquet, bringing well-deserved recognition to the work happening across our city. Lewis Hamilton: Maintenance Professional of the Year 🏅 A special highlight of the night was Lewis Hamilton, a cornerstone of our Parks Maintenance Division, receiving the first-ever Maintenance Professional of the Year award. With 34 years of dedicated service, Lewis's impact on Little Rock's parks is unparalleled. Starting his journey with the City in 1990, Lewis has climbed the ranks to oversee the maintenance of 63 parks spanning 1,200 acres. Despite challenges, Lewis's problem-solving skills and commitment to "getting the job done right" have inspired his entire team. His leadership has kept our parks bea

  On September 25th, Little Rock Parks & Recreation proudly celebrated the grand reopening of the Jim Dailey Fitness & Aquatic Center's indoor pool! After 18 months of renovations, we were thrilled to welcome back members, staff, and honored guests to this beloved community space. A Long Time Coming ✨ Originally built in 1942, the indoor pool underwent significant upgrades, marking a new chapter for this historic facility. The project, funded through bond dollars approved by voters in 2022, transformed the space with new pool surfacing, upgraded lighting, wall and floor finishes, and a state-of-the-art HVAC system explicitly designed for a natatorium. Mayor Frank Scott Jr. expressed his excitement, acknowledging the pool as a vital community resource for health, wellness, and connection. "We wanted to ensure it was done right because our residents deserve the utmost quality," the Mayor shared. Director Leland Couch emphasized that this project was more than just a