The Centerville-Washington Park District (CWPD) has been recognized as a 2026 Ohio Success Award winner in the government category by Ohio Business Magazine. The honor celebrates governmental organizations that create unique value and opportunities through ingenuity, partnership and perseverance.
The award recognizes CWPD’s commitment to enhancing quality of life through innovative environmental stewardship, accessible park improvements, community partnerships and exceptional public service. In 2025, the Park District achieved a 94% resident satisfaction rating while completing major park improvement projects, expanding recreation opportunities and advancing ecological restoration efforts throughout the community.
“This award reflects the passion and dedication of our staff, volunteers, partners and community members,” said Executive Director Kristen Marks. “Together, we continue to create a BIG backyard where every resident feels welcome and connected to the outdoors.”
A key highlight of the Park District’s award submission was Project VIPR (Volunteer Invasive Plant Response), which earned the 2025 First-Place Statewide Award for Natural Resources & Conservation from the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association. Through a partnership with Sinclair Community College’s Unmanned Aerial Systems program, the initiative combines volunteer engagement with advanced drone technology and aerial data analysis to more effectively identify and manage invasive species. Since its launch, volunteers have contributed close to 600 hours and addressed 96% of the targeted invasive plant areas.
The award also recognized CWPD’s strong community partnerships and commitment to accessibility. In 2025, the Park District leveraged more than $262,000 in grants and alternative funding sources to support impactful projects and amenities, including:
- The installation of the Park District’s second universal changing table and three new playground communication boards in partnership with the Centerville Noon Optimist Club, Mark A. Kreusch Memorial Fund and the Foundation for Centerville-Washington Parks.
- Completion of the John Meyer II Memorial Fire Circle at Bill Yeck Park in partnership with the John and Betty Meyer Foundation, creating an accessible campfire gathering space for visitors of all abilities.
- Dedication of two new bridges at Grant Park and new pickleball courts at Yankee Park, expanding park access for emergency responders and expanding recreational amenities for the community.
In addition to capital improvements, CWPD hosted 470 recreation programs and 30 special events throughout the year, serving thousands of participants, including nearly 1,750 summer camp enrollments.
Through fiscal discipline and visionary collaboration, CWPD stands as a premier example of Ohio’s dedication to excellence in public service.