Neligh aims to enhance parks with inclusive playground and more

Neligh, Neb. - is on a mission to revitalize its parks, starting with an inclusive playground initiative. City officials have joined forces with Ashley Caballero-Lazaro, who is determined to fundraise for a special swing for her brother, who has SATB2-associated syndrome, a rare condition affecting motor skills like speech and walking.

Caballero-Lazaro, as a high school freshman, initiated a coin drive and hosted her first spaghetti fundraiser, which garnered significant community support.

"The community really rallied behind her," said Neligh City Clerk & Treasurer Dana Klabenes. "She was very excited about the project and just kept it going."

The project's momentum and community discussions led Neligh to apply for a grant, which will bring three additional community concepts to fruition.

"We will be revamping the basketball courts with adjustable hoops, new court paint, and fence replacements," Klabenes explained.

With the addition of Neigh's swinging bridge a few years ago, Russel Park is set to receive a fresh burst of energy, paving the way for two more amenities across the Elkhorn River. These include a dog park and the completion of an 18-hole disc golf course.

"We started a nine-hole disc golf in Riverside Park last year," Klabenes noted. "Now, we aim to finish it, creating an 18-hole course between the two parks, with one challenging hole requiring players to throw the Frisbee across the river to the next basket."

The entire project is estimated to cost $420,000, with the grant covering 50 percent. Neligh is now focused on raising the remaining $210,000. While the grant has been awarded, it is subject to reviews by tribal and government agencies before the funds are fully disbursed.

Construction is anticipated to begin either in the fall of this year or in the spring of 2027, depending on the completion of the reviews.