Enjoying Hillsborough County parks is high on the list for those who love spending time outdoors. To make the parks even better, sometimes parks must temporarily close or areas within the parks are limited for construction or special projects.
Below is information on some of the local parks slated for improvements this summer.
Boardwalk Repair Project At Alderman’s Ford
The boardwalk at Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park is currently closed for repairs which will last through September.
The work will be the most extensive done to the half-mile boardwalk in three decades, replacing everything but the pilings. On a short section damaged by Hurricane Irma in September, the pilings also will be replaced.
The project also will affect access to the 1.9 mile paved trail that wends along the north and south prongs of the Alafia River. A portion of the trail will be shut down from the main park entrance to the double bridges Monday through Friday. On weekends, the entire trail will be open.
Woof! Woof! Dog Park Coming to Brandon
A dog park, walking trail, and expanded parking lot are coming to Bertha and Tony Saladino Park in Brandon.
The project, which began in April, is projected to last through late summer. The park, located at 1705 Bryan Road, will be closed to visitors while work is underway.
Dog parks are becoming more popular as pet owners look for a safe, enclosed area where their dogs can play and get fresh air and exercise. The dog park will include shade shelters, artificial turf, and separate areas for large dogs and small dogs.
Existing amenities at Bertha and Tony Saladino Park include a basketball court, picnic shelter, ball field, playground, and restrooms. The park’s namesakes are a well-known Brandon couple who opened their hearts and their home to generations of young baseball players, many of whom went on to collegiate or professional baseball careers.
For information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/recreation-and-culture/parks.
