By Jennifer Edwards
The Cincinnati Enquirer

MOUNT WASHINGTON - Renovations of Stanbery Park will begin this summer - earlier than expected - and wrap up by year's end or early 2005.

"I am so thrilled," said Margie Slagle, a founding member and president of the Stanbery Park Advisory Council. The group raised about $27,000 toward the park's $50,000 master plan study.

"When you live in the city, the opportunity to escape city life a mile from your doorstep is a blessing."

The 125-acre park on Oxford Avenue near Corbly Street hosts large community gatherings and is renowned for its lush, open space.

A hiking trail snakes through it to the Little Miami Scenic River Park on Elstun Road and is part of the National Trail System.

But over the years, the park's appearance has declined. Families long for more level walking paths and play equipment, "so it's easier for those with disabilities or baby strollers to enjoy the park," says Priscilla Elgersma, 38. She often uses the trails and searches for fossils in a creek with her children.

A new "civic green" area in the front of the park will replace an open field.

There also will be a formal oval-shaped walkway around the perimeter of the field and a new walkway leading back to the inner park.

That's where the new, larger playground will be erected. It will be designed to reflect the distinctive character of the architecture of the park, said Steven Schuckman, superintendent of planning and design for the park board.

A World War I memorial statue depicting a boy with a book also will be relocated to a more prominent position closer to the entrance.

Trees, plants, benches, trash cans and bike racks will be installed, all with a distinctive design.

"We are looking to do something special with it," said Schuckman.

Additional improvements could include more work done on the trail system, an extension of the walkways, new swings for the existing playground and a picnic shelter.

E-mail jedwards@enquirer.com.