Jasper Park and Recreation Board approves new sand volleyball court project from Mayor’s Youth Council
Jasper’s Buehler Park to get new recreational facility, funded through community efforts
The Jasper Park and Recreation Board has given formal approval to the Mayor’s Youth Council’s proposal to install a new sand volleyball court at Buehler Park. The project, presented by youth council members Isabella Harmon, Katie Murphy, Zoie Warner, and Jon Green, aims to enhance recreational opportunities for local youth and adults.
“Sand volleyball courts in Jasper are one of the most trafficking areas for the youth and adults,” said Isabella Harmon, current president of the Mayor’s Youth Council.
The city has volleyball courts at Bohnert and Jaycee Parks that are used regularly by leagues and other groups. According to Harmon, the youth council sees the new court as a great addition, providing more options for individuals not involved in league play.
Buehler Park is located near the Jasper State Police Post and has been greatly updated over the past year with the addition of new playground equipment, a new parking lot, walking/running path, bathrooms and pickleball courts.
The proposed court will measure 50 by 80 feet, including a 10-foot sand perimeter around the standard 30-by-60-foot playing area. The design includes a foot-deep excavation to accommodate a solid foundation of rock and landscaping fabric for drainage and weed prevention, as well as the top layer of sand.
The council has worked closely with the Parks Department on the design and is seeking cost-effective solutions while maintaining quality. Local businesses and community groups are being approached for fundraising support.
“We’ve worked with Cave Quarries, and they have agreed to give us a discount for being a youth-driven organization and also a nonprofit,” Warner explained. The group plans to host fundraising events at local restaurants and is inviting other high schoolers to get involved.
The Parks Department has agreed to assist with labor, eliminating the need to outsource installation work. This collaboration is expected to help keep costs down.
Council members expressed enthusiasm for the project. “I think it’s a great idea guys,” Park Board member Kristen Ruhe said.
The Mayor’s Youth Council, comprising about 20 students from freshman to senior year, aims to complete the project before the seniors’ graduation in May. Installation is planned for late winter or early spring when the ground softens.
If you would like to donate or help with the project, please contact Isabella Harmon at isabellaharmon638@gmail.com or Lisa Bower at the city, lbower@jasperindiana.gov.
In other council business, reports were presented on various park facilities and activities:
In 2024, the Parklands and Ruxer Clubhouse saw increased bookings for Thanksgiving gatherings, class reunions, and weddings. A new playground will be added to the Ruxer Disc Golf Course by summer of 2025.
The Older Americans Center reported steady attendance at activities and more than 100 people attended the recent Christmas party.
A cookie decorating event with Mrs. Claus at the depot attracted 251 people, exceeding expectations and requiring an emergency cookie run.
The golf course reported increased revenue from green fees and cart rentals compared to the previous year.
Park Director Tom Moorman provided an overview of the successful year with an update on ongoing projects, including the pool construction, which is on scheduled for a Memorial Day weekend opening (see photos of construction above).
The board also approved the addition of an LED light kit to a fountain planned for the Parklands, bringing the total cost to $5,828.47.
The next park and recreation board meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber.
