From city leaders to local families, the Haines City community showed up Thursday evening to celebrate a project designed to bring people together for years to come. The City of Haines City hosted a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony at Myers & Wiley Field, marking the completion of a $1.3 million artificial turf project funded through the Community Redevelopment Agency.
The July 23 celebration brought residents, athletes and families together to recognize the transformation of the field and the opportunities it will provide for recreation, sports and community gatherings. Mayor Vernel Smith, Vice Mayor Kim Downing and members of the Haines City Commission attended the event alongside community members who came out to support the milestone.
Director of Parks and Recreation Terrell Griffin opened the ceremony by welcoming guests and reflecting on the significance of the project. He thanked the Community Redevelopment Agency for providing the funding needed to complete the improvements and emphasized the city’s dedication to enhancing recreational facilities. “Today reflects more than the completion of a construction project,” Griffin said. “It’s a reflection of Haines City’s continued commitment to investing in parks, our youth and the quality of life of the residents of Haines City.” Griffin said the new field will serve as a place where residents can gather, compete and create memories for years to come.