FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Nature Center Coming to Osborn MetroPark

The Board of Park Commissioners voted last year to bring a new nature center to the citizens of Erie County.

Huron, OH, March 17, 2022-Last year the Board of Park Commissioners unanimously voted to establish a new nature center for Erie County citizens. The new building will be located within Osborn MetroPark, the current headquarters of Erie MetroParks. Ms. Bowman-Moore, the Executive Director, hopes to break ground this fall with a grand opening by the end of 2023 and states, “Erie County citizens deserve a new nature center.”

When deciding whether to renovate the current Frost Center facility, an old prison farm or construct a new facility, a needs assessment revealed the older facility to be beyond economical repair. Early estimates project the cost of the new nature center to be approximately $3 million dollars. While Erie MetroParks will utilize their own capital funds, park officials will offset costs by seeking state funds, local grants, and sponsorships.

The conceptual design for the new nature center includes educational classrooms, built-in live animal areas, a turtle pond, community space, and a window-in-nature viewing area. Energy efficiency is a priority to minimize environmental impact.

With over 50,000 annual visitors to Osborn MetroParks, this building will enable Erie MetroParks to better serve their visitors and continue the mission of “connecting the community with nature through education and exploration”. The Board of Park Commissioners and park officials are truly excited to offer Erie County residents a beautiful space for all residents that will serve them for generations to come. Public information meetings will be scheduled soon.

About Erie MetroParks- Erie MetroParks was established in 1968 starting with only Osborn MetroPark. Currently, Erie MetroParks has grown to include 13+ parks or preserves. Many of the properties that are managed by the park district are maintained in their natural state in keeping with the role assigned by the Ohio Revised Code. Areas used for active recreation are designed to have minimal impact on the natural environment of the parks. Educational programs are offered year-round for all ages. Each park is unique and allows for a variety of activities for people of all ages.

(Media contact)

Name: Kippie Loughlin

Title: Digital Media & IT Coordinator

Company Name: Erie MetroParks

Phone Number: 419-625-7783 ext. 240

E-mail: kloughlin@eriemetroparks.org

Website: eriemetroparks.com