Barron Park Game Pavilions
Funded by: AARP Community Challenge Grant (2021) with support from the City of LaBelle
Completed: Early 2022
In 2021, the LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation was awarded an AARP Community Challenge Grant to launch Phase Two of our Barron Park improvements — transforming an unused corner of the park into a shaded gathering place for all generations.
The old, unused tennis courts were removed and the space reimagined as an outdoor game area along the Caloosahatchee River. Today it features seven concrete game tables for chess and checkers, each sheltered by its own shade pavilion to beat the Florida heat, with wheelchair-accessible seating and new sidewalks connecting the area to the heart of the park.
The project grew through a true community partnership. The original grant funded five tables and five pavilions; the City of LaBelle stepped in to add two more of each, plus electricity in the pavilions and an additional sidewalk — an investment of nearly $20,000 beyond the grant.
The game area gives seniors a place to stay mentally sharp and socially connected, gives families a shaded spot to gather, and gives every generation a reason to meet in the middle — over a game board in the park.
Project highlights:
- 7 concrete chess/checkers tables, at least one fully wheelchair accessible
- 7 shade pavilions with electricity for lighting and phone charging
- New ADA-accessible sidewalks into the park center
- New recycled-material benches with backrests at the stage area
- Demolition of unused tennis courts, with fresh leveling and sod
