OAKLAND, FL — As part of an ongoing initiative to reinvigorate Speer Park – which includes new playgrounds, and a pavilion – work began this week to replace the tennis court and construct a new pickleball court.

The work is expected to last for about three weeks before the courts open. A magnolia tree and water line have been relocated to accommodate the new sport courts.

In 2019, Oakland hosted public meetings asking the community which amenities they would like to see at Speer Park. With that input, the Speer Park Master Plan was developed in 2020 and presented to the Commission for approval.

The master plan also authorized replacement of the playground equipment, and established timeframes for various improvements. During the Jan. 12, 2021 Commission meeting, the Commission voted to approve purchasing new playground equipment from Game Time, which will be installed at Speer Park during FY 2021 and budgeted from existing Recreation Impact Fees, combined with a playground grant of more than $29,000. The Town continues to work to install new or upgraded amenities at Speer Park. Last year, Public Works staff planted 10 new trees of various varieties at the park and installed new sidewalks, benches and trash cans.

A rendering of Speer Park’s new playground, set to be built in 2021.