Highland Rec Phase Three on Track for August Completion

While the new and improved Highland Recreation Complex officially opened to the public last month, there is still work being done to the property.

Phase three of the project has been in full swing since the new facility was completed and the old rec center building was torn down. 

Walking the property you'll notice major changes to the grounds in the back of the complex off of Lake Avenue; it's all part of the final plans to beautify and upgrade the entire property, according to city officials.

"Phase three will contain a fitness zone with outdoor exercise equipment, a restroom and concession facility next to the baseball field, an open play field, tennis courts as well as additional parking," Recreation, Parks and Arts Director Joan Byrne told Patch.

"When it's completed it will all connect to the pond, the trail and the rest of the complex."

Byrne said of all the additions to the property, she is most excited about the open field and the exercise equipment.

She said the field will be un-lined to be used for non-specific sports.

"The field will be leveled with durable grass and it's intended for play - frisbee, catch, games or whatever," she said. "It's not intended for scholastic games or practices."

"We're excited because there aren't many open play spaces any more."

The exercise area, which was paid for by a grant from the health department, mirrors the one over at Largo Central Park.

"The equipment is very popular at the park, and we hope it will be popular here too."

Byrne said she expects the third and final phase of the Highland Rec project to be completed by the end of August.