Our City's Pulse: Why a Quiet Summer at the Stadium Matters

I have talked to many resident recently who have noticed a drop off in the activity act our local sports complex. I have been told there are a number of reason why the sports complex has been less busy this year. Everything from the county is laying new astro turf to everything is going to neighboring facilities. You may think why does it matter? There is clearly a drop off in activity but why? Who does it impact, and how does it affect our investment in this facility? When our local attractions aren't thriving, it sends a message. It can indicate:

Economic Strain: Are families finding it harder to afford leisure activities? Are local businesses struggling, impacting their ability to sponsor events or encouraging residents to spend elsewhere? A lively stadium often means a healthy local economy, and its quietness could signal a need to focus on economic development, supporting small businesses, and creating more job opportunities right here in Wetumpka.
Lack of Engagement/Programming: Are the events and offerings at the stadium truly appealing to our diverse community? Is there enough variety? Are there barriers to access, such as transportation or scheduling, that are keeping people away? We need to ensure our public spaces are actively drawing in residents of all ages.
Community Cohesion: A thriving local event scene often points to a strong sense of community. If people aren't gathering, what can we do to foster that connection? This could involve supporting local initiatives, improving public spaces, or creating more opportunities for residents to come together beyond just sporting events.
Infrastructure & Accessibility: Is it easy to get to the stadium? Is parking adequate? Are our public spaces well-maintained and inviting? Sometimes, the most basic things can make a big difference in how people engage with their city.

This isn't about finger-pointing; it's about identifying challenges so we can work together on solutions. As your advocate, I believe we need to:

Actively listen to residents and local businesses: What do you believe would bring more life back to our city and its attractions?
Invest strategically in community initiatives: This means more than just one-off events. It means fostering sustainable programs and improvements that benefit everyone.
Promote Wetumpka as a vibrant destination: We have so much to offer – our natural beauty, rich history, and incredible people. Let's work to showcase that and attract both residents and visitors.
Support policies that put families first: Ensuring our city is affordable, safe, and offers opportunities for all residents will naturally lead to a more engaged and vibrant community.

Let's work together to make Wetumpka a place where our Parks and Recreations are roaring with excitement, and every part of our city truly thrives. Our community deserves nothing less.