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It was only a few months ago that Wheeling Park resembled a disaster zone, as dozens of trees were ripped from the ground during a massive storm, blocking roadways and limiting access to the grounds.
That's all since been cleaned up, and the park recently has welcomed a new dog running area courtesy of the Fitzsimmons family. The next step in Wheeling Park's long-awaited improvements came Wednesday with the announcement of a $3.2 million renovation of the White Palace.
Utilizing funds from the city of Wheeling's American Rescue Plan allocation and also donations, the White Palace will see a redesigned facade at the side entrance, a new, grand staircase leading to the second-floor lobby and a new design for the ballroom. A sky-lit veranda will run across the front of the building with a long wall of windows and French doors.
A new cafe will be located on the west corner of the White Palace's ground floor, and will lead to an outdoor deck with seating for patrons.
"The new cafe is just one of the many reasons for the community to come out and enjoy Wheeling Park. It will become the center where guests can relax, have a light snack and pick up coffee before or after swimming, golf, tennis or ice-skating," said Bob Peckenpaugh, president and CEO of the Wheeling Park Commission. "The future is bright for Wheeling Park with the many improvements scheduled to happen over the next few years."
That's excellent news for the community, as Wheeling Park is a gem that has welcomed and entertained generations of local residents. Upgrading the White Palace with a new design and new amenities will just add more reasons for locals to visit the site.
Wheeling Mayor Glenn Elliott alluded to the nostalgia factor with Wheeling Park: "Countless local residents have very fond memories of Wheeling Park from their childhoods, and City Council is pleased to support projects like this one that will benefit our citizens and visitors alike. We look forward to the completion of these exciting upgrades."
So do we. Excellent work from all involved to work through these updates to Wheeling Park.