CITY OF MADISON RECEIVES BETHANY LEGACY FOUNDATION GRANT

Neighborhood park in need of significant upgrades

Madison, Indiana – The City of Madison is excited to announce that the City Council has approved the acceptance of a $500,000 grant from Bethany Legacy Foundation (BLF) to support the Damon L. Welch Park Improvements Project. The grant will be distributed in two installments: $250,000 in 2025 and $250,000 in 2026.

Formerly known as Jaycee Park until June of 2021, Damon L. Welch Park, is located at 619 E. Vaughn Drive on two acres beneath the pillars of the Madison-Milton Bridge. In 2022, following extensive community feedback, the City identified Welch Park as a neighborhood park in need of significant upgrades. This project is part of Madison’s Five-Year Parks Master Plan, which emphasizes investment in existing facilities to better serve residents and visitors.

The planned improvements include improved parking, construction of an additional shelter house, installation of a new basketball court, construction of a new restroom building, updated playground equipment, construction of a new stone wall and signage honoring former Mayor Damon Welch, upgrades to the sand volleyball courts, and the addition of new pickleball courts.

The City’s Parks Master Plan, adopted in 2022, was developed with guidance from the Parks Commission and public input. Residents participated in surveys and forums, expressing a strong desire for improved playgrounds, restrooms, and picnic areas, and rating the condition of existing parks as “average to poor.” The planned upgrades at Welch Park reflect the priorities identified by the community.

“We are incredibly grateful to Bethany Legacy Foundation for this generous grant,” said Mayor Bob Courtney. “Investments in our parks are investments in Madison’s quality of life. This project will transform Welch Park into a vibrant, welcoming space that honors Mayor Welch’s legacy and provides meaningful recreational opportunities for families and neighbors for generations to come on our beautiful riverfront.”

“Welch Park is a vital investment in Jefferson County,” said Dora Anim, President & CEO of Bethany Legacy Foundation. “Recreation is about more than play; it’s about quality of place. A strong park system helps attract and keep talent, builds a thriving workforce, and strengthens health, connection, and pride in our community.”

To learn more about the Damon Welch Park Improvements Project and other ongoing initiatives, visit madison-in.gov/projects.