Tracy Beale enjoyed playing ball as a kid at Frew Park in Frazeysburg but always wished there was something to play on at the park. “I never got to play on a playground here but would love for other kids to be able to,” said Tracy. Thanks to his efforts, the support of the Township, and the work of volunteers, generations of children will be able to enjoy playing on play equipment at the local park.
Tracy has been involved in scouts since first grade. He is currently working on earning his Eagle Scout rank which requires the completion of a service project among other requirements.
The project started about a year and a half ago. Of course, it was quite a process from the time the idea came about to the breaking of the ground this past summer. But, the community has been very supportive. Tracy has had at least 30-40 sets of helping hands throughout the journey including Stephen Kopcho, Jim Romine, family members including his mom and sister, Crew 447 from Coshocton, Troop 164 from Zanesville (Tracy’s troop), Troop 174 from Nashport, and Troop 121 from Dresden. An estimated 200 hours have been dedicated to the project so far.
A total of $13,000 has been invested in the addition of the playground from local businesses, a Go Fund Me account, and grants including $10,500 from the Nature Works Grant.
When the playground is completed it will be dedicated in memory of Mr. Carroll Bumpus, who was an active member in the Frazeysburg community. A plaque will be added to mark the dedication.
There are just a few finishing touches that remain and pretty soon the new playground will be completed. “I would love to see people playing out here once it is all finished,” explained Tracy. He plans to bring his nieces and nephews out to play on the new equipment really soon.
