The Village Park on South Street in Garrettsville is about to get a major upgrade that will provide better access for residents of all abilities. The vision for this project came from the late Tom Collins, a beloved resident, councilperson and community supporter.
“Tom would share his concern for those he knew that were sitting around in their (wheel)chairs for hours, watching their grandkids play on the nearby ballfields or on the playground,” Delores McCumbers from McCumbers-Brady Realty, shared. “He had the idea to create a paved path to connect people with all abilities to the ball fields, playground, and dog park.”
According to his wife, Sherri Collins, the project is one Tom had envisioned for five or six years. Her husband was known for his determination and passion for making a difference. For over 25 years, Tom’s work with Cleveland Clinic Mellon Center and the National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation was fueled by his hope of a cure for MS and better quality of life for himself and others with the disease.
He also served the local community on Village Council, as part of the Garrettsville-Hiram Rotary and through the Portage Parks District. His influence is visible in the gardens at the entrance of the Headwaters Hike & Bike Trail, and in the updated equipment in Village parks. According to Sherri, “Tom always did his best to make sure he left the world a better place.” Garrettsville Mayor Rick Patrick noted, “And Tom just didn’t give up. And where there’s a will, there’s a way.” McCumbers noted, “It’s marvelous what people can do with a dream.”
It’s fitting then, for this new trail that will provide access for all, to be named in Collins’ honor.
The six-foot wide paved trail will include a roughly one-mile loop that begins near the library. The Rotary Club worked tirelessly to raise money as construction costs steadily increased; the project was finally made possible through a generous grant from Portage DD.
Tara Beatty from the Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities was pleased to be present for the groundbreaking. “This project will allow people with all-abilities better access to the park and trail.” She continued, “The Portage DD provides grant funding for accessibility programs throughout Portage County, no matter the size.”
Mayor Patrick noted, “Without all these people,” he said, motioning to those assembled, “it wouldn’t have been possible.” Weather-permitting, the new trail will be installed by the end of June.
