Last Updated on June 12, 2024 at 3:57pm
This past weekend, Norfolk Southern hosted the Summer Kick-Off Festival at East Palestine City Park, bringing together community members to celebrate the start of the season through family-friendly entertainment, food, and more.
The event attracted approximately 1,000 attendees to the heart of the village and supported dozens of local businesses.
“Events like these are great for showcasing what our town has to offer in the region,” said East Palestine Mayor Trent Conaway. “We were so proud to welcome folks into the village this weekend and show them the pride, tradition, and progress that makes us who we are.”
This year’s activities and food – all free for attendees – included bounce houses, face painting, a dunk tank, pony rides, foam fun, obstacle courses, a DJ, and more.
“We’re thrilled to see so many residents come together to enjoy this event in the beautiful park,” said Kristin Wong, Norfolk Southern Director Corporate Giving. “And we’re looking forward to seeing this park enter its next chapter with the beginning of renovations later this summer.”
Next up, officials plan to break ground this summer on Phase I of improvements to City Park. Those are expected to be completed by the end of 2027. Work on Phase I includes construction of an amphitheater, installation of new pickleball courts, relocation of the tennis and basketball courts, improvements to the field areas, extended parking, additional dog park parking, lighting, and new walking paths.
Norfolk Southern has committed approximately $107 million to East Palestine and the surrounding communities. Learn more at: NSMakingitRight.com.