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"The people in Clarinda rose up and raised the money to pay for the restroom and tennis court projects. There was a need and the people showed there is support for projects like that," Pullen said.
Work on the new restrooms started last fall and kicked into high gear during the months of April and May.
"The new restrooms were finished in early June and were open for use during most of the ball season," Pullen explained.
A total of 58 organizations and individuals donated to the fundraising effort for the restroom project.
"I would like to thank the Clarinda Chamber of Commerce and the Clarinda Herald-Journal for helping organize the fundraising effort and publishing the list of donors, which was beneficial to the success of the project," Pullen said.
The Clarinda Public Works Departments, led by Randy Meyer and Alan Searl, provided the manpower for the construction of the restrooms, while Jay Moses also donated a great deal of time working on the project.
Meanwhile, 14 organizations and individuals contributed to the resurfacing of the five tennis courts at Clarinda City Park.
Work on the tennis courts started on July 28 and the courts were ready for use on Aug. 4.
The resurfacing project included filling cracks on the courts, leveling low spots, a new playing surface was laid on the courts and new windscreens were installed at four of the courts.
Pullen added that new tennis nets will be installed next spring and enough funding remained to replace the lights at the tennis court at Kiwanis Park.
"This year we had 153 participants in our summer tennis program. Now, with the courts being as nice as they are, I would expect to see an increase in use by youth and adults alike," Pullen said.
In a continuing effort to improve the quality of the city park system for all users, Pullen said he has another significant project planned for next spring.
"I will be applying for grants to pour concrete so the north softball field, the new restrooms and the baseball fields will all be connected by sidewalks to improve the access for people in wheelchairs. We are also looking at adding viewing pads for those fans and we have already received some donations for that project," Pullen concluded.
