The Gettysburg Area Recreational Authority (GARA), under the new leadership of Executive Director Al Moyer, is focusing on revitalizing and expanding the offerings at the Gettysburg Rec Park, a 52-acre community treasure that has served generations of families. With a mix of short-term improvements, long-term goals, and partnerships, GARA aims to increase the park’s visibility and attract more users.
Upgrades and Improvements
Recent upgrades include energy-efficient lighting to enhance visibility and discourage vandalism at the amphitheater. “Hopefully, people think twice about doing something stupid,” said Moyer, referencing past issues with vandalism. Maintenance crews have also removed the lower branches of the large pine trees between amphitheater and the cemetery to improve the park’s appearance and make the amphitheater more visible.
Moyer said GARA is also exploring the possibility of hosting lacrosse clubs and welcoming other new sports programs.
The park also remains committed to continuing to host community programs like those run by the Typical Life Corporation, which leases rooms in the Charlie Sterner building for programs that help adults with neurological impairments learn life skills on a day-to-day basis.
Plans are also underway for a capital plan that would allow improvements to the park’s south bathrooms and update the park’s maintenance equipment. Moyer said efforts are being made to reorganize storage areas to provide secure options for park users.
Renewing Partnerships and Expanding Programs
GARA currently holds Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with youth football, baseball, and soccer organizations. Moyer is working to renew these partnerships while reaching out to new groups, such as the Gettysburg Youth Soccer Club (GYSC), to bring greater visibility and diversity to the park’s offerings.
“We’re asking a bit more from the people we have MOUs with,” Moyer explained, referencing recent increases in rental rates for the assembly hall and pavilions. “We want to continue to provide quality programs while addressing the needs of our users.”
Expanding partnerships with community organizations like Optimist, Kiwanis, Eagles, Rotary, and the Chamber of Commerce is also a priority for Moyer. He also hopes to engage neighboring municipalities, whose residents regularly use the park, to support park projects.
Remembering a Dedicated Caretaker
Moyer also paid tribute to Ronnie Doaks, a longtime park caretaker who passed away on November 14. “He treated this place like it was his own house,” Moyer said. “We relied on him heavily, and his contributions are deeply missed.”
A Community Treasure
As GARA works to preserve and enhance the Gettysburg Rec Park, Moyer remains optimistic about the future. “This is a community treasure,” he said. “My kids and grandkids have used it on many occasions, and we want to ensure it continues to serve everyone.”
GARA is encouraging new partnerships and welcoming inquiries about programs, events, and facility use. As Moyer put it, “We’re open to any and all inquiries about anything related to the site.”
For more information or to become involved with the Friends of GARA initiative, please contact the rec park at 717.334.2028.
Featured image caption: GARA Executive Director Al Moyer
Charles (Chuck) Stangor is Gettysburg Connection's Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief. I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at cstangor@gettysburgconnection.org.