Pittsburg parks receive major upgrades thanks to Pritchett Trust, community partners

Two community parks in Pittsburg are set to receive major upgrades, thanks to generous support from the Pritchett Trust and the collaborative efforts of Pittsburg Parks and Recreation, Everybody Plays and the Pittsburg Noon Rotary Club.

The grants totaled $29,557, with $25,000 allocated to Rotary Leffler Park and $4,557 to Schlanger Park.

Rotary Leffler Park will undergo a transformation with a brand-new playground set and remodeling throughout the park. This site, rich in local history, was once home to Forest Park School (1891–1951) and was named in honor of Dr. Paul B. Leffler, a local Rotarian. The Pittsburg Noon Rotary Club continues to maintain the park through a tradition of birthday donations, inspired by Dr. Leffler’s annual contributions.

“The Pittsburg Noon Rotary Club would like to thank Toby Book, Douglas Stuckey and the Pritchett Trust for helping provide the funds for the new playground equipment at Leffler Park,” Pittsburg Noon Rotary Past President Bryce Anderson said. “Thanks to their efforts, the park will continue to be a great asset for the Pittsburg community.”

Schlanger Park will see improvements to its playground area, including resurfacing and a few upgrades to enhance safety and accessibility. These enhancements are built on years of work by Everybody Plays, a dedicated local task force that has championed inclusive play spaces in Pittsburg. Their past projects include adjustable basketball goals, accessible swings, and the creation of Katherine’s Playground, a universally accessible play area.

“We are incredibly grateful to Frances Mitchelson (Chair of the Pritchett Trust Grant Committee) and the Pritchett Trust for their continued support,” Pittsburg Parks and Recreation Director Toby Book said. “Their generosity helps ensure our parks remain safe, fun, and welcoming for families and children.”

Lou Ann Colyer of Everybody Plays added, “It’s taken 18 years to develop an accessible playground for everyone at Schlanger Park, and we’re not done yet. This grant allows us to make necessary repairs and continue improving the space. We’ve worked hard to make this a better place for our community. Thank you to the board and Frances.”

These upgrades reflect a shared commitment to creating inclusive, vibrant public spaces where everyone can play, connect, and thrive.