The Town of Plainfield recently reopened their oldest park. Established in 1936, Franklin Park needed some major renovations and updates and received them this year with new playground equipment, pickleball courts, sports facilities and a dog park.
Hendricks County Parks and Plainfield Parks and Recreation specifically are known for their excellence, so I headed out there with my kiddos. The improvements were clear: there’s something for everyone at the park, nestled among neighborhoods in downtown Plainfield. Here's what you need to know about the new amenities:
The interest in pickleball has soared in recent years so it’s fitting that Franklin Park would include eight new courts for the community.
They are next to six new basketball courts and across the way from the baseball field giving sports enthusiasts a wealth of options.
2. Dog Park
Fans of the Plainfield Bark Park will be thrilled with this new addition on the other side of town for their four-legged friends.
When we visited, Franklin Park's new dog park was not quite ready for guests but it’ll open very soon and has plenty of amenities and fenced-in open space for your furry family members. A membership will be required to gain access once it opens.
3. Trail Access
The Vandalia Trail runs straight through Franklin Park, giving cyclists, walkers and runners a great view of the upgrades.
If you're so inclined, take a detour along the new one-mile loop around the park or stop in and take a break at one of the many benches and rest areas. There's even a new bicycle repair station in the park.
Picnic areas and benches allow for individuals and groups to make a day of it at the park. In addition, a large shelter available for rent is perfect for a family reunion, celebration or special event.
It’s always fun visiting a park with new equipment or even new-to-you slides, swings and climbing apparatus.
My kids enjoyed two large playgrounds, the saucer swing and the three-dimensional net climbing structure. For the littles in your group, there are adult/toddler swings and a smaller, toddler-sized playground.
