Robert F. Mays Park

History

In January 2013 the Park District purchased 23.204 acres from Divided Ridge, Ltd., using funds obligated for parkland acquisition. About the same time, the Park District was contacted by the family of Robert F. Mays who was interested in making a donation to provide a significant contribution to the Park District for the benefit of the community. Robert Mays raised his family in Washington Township, and the parks were a big part of their everyday lives. In his early years, Bob and his friends helped develop a new park in Sidney and now he was interested in helping create a “jewel in the crown of the parks” for the Centerville/Washington Township community.

When the idea came up to develop a new park, Bob Mays was dedicated to helping make a difference. He made a substantial commitment to the Park District for the initial development of this new park. In recognition of Bob’s generosity, the Park Board officially named the new park Robert F. Mays Park.

The Park District also became aware of a new non-profit group, Washington Township Trails, Inc., dedicated to providing multi-use trails in the community. The approved multi-use trail master plan for providing community connections includes a trail along Social Row Road, with connections to neighborhoods and activity centers. Divided Ridge, Ltd. donated land along the perimeter of the new park area to the trails group, establishing another partner in the development of this new park. By purchasing the new parkland and partnering with the trails group, another section of multi-use trail will be developed for the community’s use.

Following a public open house and meeting with many nearby residents, the Robert F. Mays Park plan was approved by the Board of Park Commissioners, the Washington Township Zoning Commission and the Washington Township Trustees. The plan included athletic field space for lacrosse, soccer or football, a park shelter with restrooms, playground, walking paths, trees, native grass plantings and parking for 150 cars. The walking paths will connect to the Washington Township Trails, Inc. paths along Social Row and Paragon Roads.