Park Transformation Underway
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Park Transformation Underway
By Shane Gilreath
SCN Contributing Editor
[email protected]
Work to transform Oneida City Park into a community arboretum began last week, marking the first step in a long-planned effort to promote biodiversity and environmental education inside Scott County. The project will ultimately include the removal of more than 40 Bradford pear trees scattered throughout the park. Though once popular for their spring blossoms, the East Asian imports are widely considered invasive and can crowd out native species.
By replacing the pears with regionally native trees, city leaders hope to create a healthier ecosystem. Community Development Director Virginia Bruce has ordered dozens of native varieties, including two types of red maple, American linden, Carolina silverbells, sourwood, serviceberry and Kentucky coffee trees. Planting is expected to be completed by spring, with crews undertaking the work one day per week as part of a steady, deliberate approach to transform the park without interrupting daily visitors.
As previously reported by SCN, the park has also applied for formal arboretum recognition, a distinction that would highlight its growing diversity and educational mission. Bruce said all species of trees will soon be tagged with labels listing both common and scientific names, helping visitors identify species and learn more about the landscape. These markers will serve as simple but effective tools for cataloging plants while encouraging curiosity among guests of all ages.
While the park’s appearance and daily use will remain largely unchanged, its new status will transform it into a living museum: a place for nature walks, school field trips and hands-on learning if all goes as planned. Leaders with an eye for tourism advancement believe the arboretum could also draw new visitors to Scott County, blending recreation with conservation.
The park will also soon see the complete renovation of the old depot, which will become the new home of the Museum of Oneida and Scott County, currently housed in Black Cat on Main Street. The museum will further cement the well-loved park as both a cultural and educational hub for Scott County and its many visitors.
