Last year, the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation launched the BlueCross Healthy Place program, which creates and improves public spaces across the state, providing neighbors with places for connection and healthy activity. It’s another way we’re demonstrating our commitment to giving back to the communities we serve.
Construction is underway on the first BlueCross Healthy Place, the revitalization of David Carnes Park in Memphis. We chose the site in conjunction with the City of Memphis Mayor’s Office and Parks Department, in part because area residents requested more resources for the space.
The project kicked off with a community meeting last April to gather input from local residents, followed by an official groundbreaking in June. It is slated to be completed later this spring. Key features, including the playground and challenge course, are being installed now. When completed, the park will also feature a multi-purpose field, a splash pad, fitness pods, a pavilion and a resurfaced walking track.
“We’re making good progress, even though we’ve lost more than 100 days to rain and muddy conditions,” said Scott Wilson, director of community relations and health foundation for BlueCross.
“We hope the BlueCross Healthy Place at David Carnes Park will become a fixture in the Whitehaven neighborhood and strengthen community bonds for years to come, and we’re looking forward to the grand opening.”
Take a look at the park’s progress below. Stay tuned for more updates as work continues.
Amanda joined the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee corporate communications team in 2017. Born and raised in Chattanooga, she has a decade of experience in writing for print and the web, as well as digital marketing.