Connecting Community Through Vibrant Recreational Spaces
By Logan Summerlin
Located in the sprawling hills of Morgantown, WV, Marilla Park has long been a place where community members can come together for various recreational purposes. The Morgantown Board of Parks and Recreation( BOPARC) has been a pioneer in ensuring that the facilities at Marilla Park can be used for generations to come. The first phase of improvements at the park, recently culminating in the grand opening of the new Marilla Park Pool Complex, was the result of years of dedication by BOPARC to ensure its mission continues to be accomplished.
The new complex contains three slides as well as a lazy river, diving board, splash zone and zero-grade entry area reminiscent of the original Marilla Pool. Also located on the pool deck are two separate shaded areas with tables, umbrellas and chairs as well as a bathhouse. The project, completed in May 2025 at a cost of around $ 12 million, reflects the community’ s longstanding love for Marilla Pool and this new chapter of opportunities for its use.
The complex is a shining example of how strategic vision combined with thorough expertise can create new levels of quality for recreational public spaces. Jeff Gola, project manager at The Thrasher Group, has been with the project from the beginning.
“ This benefits people from all walks of life,” Gola says.“ What this project started out as— improvements to the pool complex— has turned into something that values community connectivity above all.”
“ More than anything, recreation is about bringing people together,” says Melissa Wiles, executive director of BOPARC.“ It was clear from the start this was an important project, and we wanted to incorporate spaces to make memories and gather with friends and family.”
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