(From the City of Joplin)City officials and community members joined Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce members to celebrate the upcoming renovation of Ewert Park with a groundbreaking today. Members of East Town served with City staff to review options and develop plans for this 14-acre park.
“Today, this historical park’s future looks bright as the renovation brings many upgraded and new amenities to our community,” said Joplin Mayor Keenan Cortez. “In creating these plans, the City collaborated with community members to reflect the park’s rich history and its importance to so many. This renovation will revitalize a beloved neighborhood space while honoring the strong roots it has provided for East Town residents and the wider community.”
Ewert Park is- and has been- the heart of the surrounding neighborhood. A Splash Park is being added and will be the largest of its kind in the area, providing a unique, family-friendly attraction for everyone to enjoy!
Park improvements are expected to include the following:A new splash park with landscaping and improvements to the current bathhouse building
A new playground to replace the current playground
A 12-foot-wide ice ribbon that will weave in and around the splash park
A covered basketball/multiuse courts to replace the existing tennis courts
A multi-functional stage and amphitheater with power for speaker systems and lighting for nighttime events
A park kiosk with design elements that highlight the history of Ewert Park
Interpretive signage that provides education on historical elements and events throughout the park
Increased security lighting and camera systems
“This will be an exciting addition to Joplin for residents to enjoy year-round,” said Paul Bloomberg, Director of Parks and Recreation. “The committee considered many types of elements to be included in this park before making final decisions. They’ve done a great job, and the park will have something for all ages, as well as share some of the park’s history since it opened in 1925.”
Originally opened on July 12, 1925, Ewert Park covers about 14 acres. Paul Ewert, a U.S. attorney, purchased and donated the land to create a vibrant community park for the African American residents of East Town, Joplin. Many have enjoyed the swimming pool, playground, dance pavilion, and shelter house throughout the years. The pool was upgraded twice during this time.
The $9.9 million project is funded by a combination of the Parks & Stormwater Sales Tax and Use Tax revenues earmarked for beautification. Completion of this renovation is anticipated in mid to late 2026.
To sign up for project alerts, visit the project website (www.ewertsplashpark.com).
For more information about Ewert Splash Park, please contact Paul Bloomberg, City of Joplin Parks and Recreation Director, at pbloombe@joplinmo.org.
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