Buckhannon’s parks to reopen by Labor Day

BUCKHANNON -- City officials say Buckhannon’s parks - which were flooded during the July 21 severe storms – will reopen to the public before Labor Day.

The City of Buckhannon announced that Jawbone Park and the North Buckhannon Riverfront Park will officially reopen on Friday, Sept. 4, just in time for the upcoming Labor Day weekend.

Both parks have been closed since the July 21 flooding to allow for "extensive cleanup, sanitation, and safety assessments," a City of Buckhannon press release states.

"City crews have worked diligently over the past several weeks to restore these community spaces, ensuring they are safe, clean, and ready to welcome residents and visitors once again," the release states.

"Reopening these parks marks an important milestone in our community's recovery," said Buckhannon Mayor Robbie Skinner.

"Jawbone Park and the North Buckhannon Riverfront Park are central gathering places for Buckhannon, and we are grateful for the hard work and collaboration that made it possible to reopen them in time for the holiday weekend."

Officials are hoping the parks will help residents celebrate Labor Day.

"With the parks reopening, residents will be able to enjoy a full Labor Day weekend outdoors, including family activities and small gatherings," the release states. "The City encourages everyone to continue exercising care and respect for shared spaces as recovery efforts continue throughout the community."

City officials also extended appreciation to all of the city’s Public Works Departments and the Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department, whose efforts have made the parks reopening possible.

The parks reopening is a significant step in the community’s moving past the devastating natural disaster. Two Upshur residents lost their lives in the flooding. In Upshur and Lewis counties alone, 33 homes were destroyed, with 91 other homes experiencing major damage, 235 with minor damage, and 182 otherwise impacted.

For updates on ongoing recovery efforts and community announcements, please visit buckhannonwv.org.