New, improved Freedom Park now open

  • Published
  • By Airman Davis Donaldson
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

Freedom Park opened back up to children and families July 19 on Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, after being under construction since Feb. 6.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate its completion, and also commemorate the old playground.

“Freedom Park has been a staple to the Columbus Air Force Base community for a long time,” said Col. David Fazenbaker, 14th Flying Training Wing vice commander. “Unfortunately, the previous version fell into disrepair. It was built with love and self-help from the people who had been in the Columbus community for years prior.”

The old Freedom Park was wooden and built in 1996. Over the 20 years the playground started to deteriorate in several areas causing hazards for children. In September of 2018, base leadership decided to close it down and looked to the future.

“Hopefully, the pieces we’ve left here will help them know it was simply time for a new Freedom Park,” said Fazenbaker.

A sign that hung while the old park was open, now hangs above the pavilion by the playground so the Columbus community will never forget the old Freedom Park.