CHARLES TOWN – The City of Charles Town’s Board of Parks & Recreation Commissioners and the Jefferson Memorial Park Corporation have entered into an agreement to transfer ownership and operation of the park from the Jefferson Memorial Park Board to the City’s Parks & Recreation Commission.

Under the terms of the agreement, CTBPRC will purchase the park form JMPC for $1. The closing date is expected to be on or about July 30.

For the past two years, the organizations have been working cooperatively to explore options for improved operations, maintenance and future sustainability of the park. A task force, comprised of members from both organizations, was established in 2009.

CTBPRC has also agreed to make provisions to continue the park’s tennis program and serve as home to the Jefferson County swim team. Once transferred, the deed will also include a restriction that the property must be used as a public park in perpetuity, thereby securing the park’s future.

The 11.6 acre park was established in 1949 and made possible by a land donation from the late Dr. and Mrs. G.P. Morrison. Since then, it has been owned and operated by Jefferson Memorial Park Corporation, a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization, managed by a volunteer board of directors. It currently features a hard surface walking trail; three tennis courts; two basketball courts; two playground areas; four pavilions; a Veteran’s memorial; and an outdoor public swimming pool – the only such facility currently in Jefferson County.