New Albany to celebrate opening of first phase of Taylor Farm Park

The City of New Albany is holding a celebration Tuesday afternoon to mark the official opening of the first phase of Taylor Farm Park, a former 100-acre farm tract dating back to the 1800s that is being converted to wetlands, a nature preserve, walking trails and a playground that is located at 5526 E. Dublin Granville Road.

In addition to East Dublin Granville Road, the park is also bounded by Rocky Fork Creek, Route 161, homes in the Green at Hampsted Village subdivision (which is located in Columbus but where students attend New Albany-Plain Local Schools) and by Harlem Road.

The park features leisure trails, wood boardwalks over wetland areas, and a natural playground with a rubberized play surface to provide accessibility to all. The playground actually consists of two play areas: one with play equipment designed for ages 2-5 and the other with equipment designed for ages 5-12.

The grand opening event will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Those attending will be able to explore the playground equipment, interact with animals from the Ohio Wildlife Center and enjoy an ice pop treat beginning at 3:30 p.m. New Albany City Council members will make brief remarks at 4 p.m. followed by a countdown to a confetti pop. Parking will be available off the park entrance at 5526 E. Dublin Granville Rd..

Although phase one is opening, construction on subsequent phases of Taylor Farm Park, including a restroom facility, will continue into early 2024. The old farmhouse near the parking area was retained but an old wooden barn and another wooden outbuilding on the property near the parking area had to be torn down because they could not be saved.

For more information about the project, go to newalbanyohio.org/park-projects.