Surrarrer Park Gets Equipment Upgrade In Bid To Attract Residents

STRONGSVILLE, OH — Two years ago, Strongsville Recreation Director Bryan Bogre looked at Surrarrer Park and knew it needed it to change. Hardly anyone visited the park and he knew why, they had no reason to. He wanted to change that. He wanted to make Surrarrer into a destination.

"All that was there was a baseball field and tennis courts and an old set of swing sets and a little tiny basketball court, that probably shouldn’t even be called a basketball court," Bogre said. He went before Strongsville City Council and asked for funding to change that. He got his wish.

Last year, crews installed ADA-accessible slides, swings, climbing apparatus and adaptive equipment for children in wheelchairs. This year, crews added a zip line and more playground equipment for children ages 5 to 15.

"I wanted more equipment for older kids," Bogre told Patch.

In about 24 months, Strongsville has invested nearly $200,000 in upgrading Surrarrer Park. Most of the money came from the recreation department's budget, but the Ohio Department of Natural Resources also contributed a $40,000 grant, Bogre said.

On a recent Friday evening, Bogre took his family to the renovated playground. He saw 70 to 80 people enjoying the equipment and spending time together.

"I just hope people can enjoy the park," he said.