Columbia Police still need your help in solving this month’s double shooting at Cosmo Park.
No arrests have been made. Columbia Parks and Recreation director Gabe Huffington discussed the incident on 939 the Eagle’s “CEO Roundtable” program:
“Can’t say a whole lot about that one just because it’s still an active investigation that they’re working on. But that park safety is always a challenge for us,” he tells listeners.
Mr. Huffington tells listeners that 13 flock cameras have been installed in various Columbia parks. He also says the department currently has one park ranger, adding that they’re in the process of hiring three additional park rangers.
Meantime, a Columbia-based foundation and a popular late bike shop owner are responsible for the new Cosmo bike park, which will be dedicated on May 22.
“And Veterans United Foundation gave a large grant for that project to help with the construction. And then also the Frank W. Morris trust. Frank owned Walt’s bike shop for about 40 years and when Frank passed away, he left a trust and the money was designated for cycling in the Columbia community,” Mr. Huffington says.
Mr. Morris, who died in 2020, was also an excellent ping pong player and emphasized the importance of the outdoors. Columbia Parks and Recreation is also touting the new Perche Creek trail.
Columbia’s Parks and Recreation Department has about 3,800 acres of parkland, and it offers a wide range of activities for residents of all ages. Mr. Huffington says the department has 79 parks and 62 miles of trails, along with 56 playgrounds.
You can listen to host Fred Parry’s full interview with Mr. Huffington here.
