With trail completed, funds still sought to finish $1.5M Hanahan park project

Hanahan City Park is a little closer to completion, but it still has far to go.

City officials recently celebrated the completion of the half-mile walking trail that winds among the trees and sweeps in front of the Goose Creek Reservoir.

The trail, which will connect all components of the park, is just a portion of a multiphased 6-acre project.

Conceptual plans also call for a playground, gazebo, fishing pier, covered picnic shelters and amphitheater.

In the second phase, playground equipment, restroom facilities and additional parking will be added, said Randy Moneymaker, director of recreation and parks for the city.

City officials have not put a firm timeline on the completion of the park as they continue to search for funding.

Moneymaker mainly wants Hanahan residents to know that the park is open for use.

"Everything is contingent upon funding for the park," Moneymaker said.

The cost of building a park is expected to ring in at close to $1.5 million. The first phase will cost around $300,000.

City Administrator Hal Mason said it may take several years to finish construction. In the meantime, the city is trying to secure state grants to pay for future work.

"We're very pleased that we've been able to complete this trail. And we're trying to do it in the most cost-effective way," Mason said. "We're trying to use grants where we can, and grants are competitive. We may end up having to use city money."

City Councilman Jeff Chandler has been instrumental in developing plans for the park and looks forward to the day the project is completed. It will be a focal point of the community and a place for families and friends to gather, Chandler said.

"It's a good place for the whole community to get together," Chandler said.

Reach Jasiri Whipper at 745-5863 or jwhipper@postandcourier.com.