Skate Park, Pump Track and Climbing Boulders Among Enhancements Envisioned for Ella Sharp Park in New Partnership

(January 28, 2026 4:04 PM ET) The City of Jackson has approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Movement Jackson LLC to explore potential new recreation features at Ella Sharp Park. Approved by City Council last night, the memorandum establishes a framework for a public-private partnership that allows planning, fundraising and phased development concepts to move forward. The agreement does not authorize construction but provides a pathway for continued collaboration and future coordination.

Movement Jackson LLC is led by Jackson residents with long-standing ties to the community and experience in community-focused initiatives. The group’s vision centers on creating accessible outdoor recreation opportunities designed to serve residents of different ages and activity levels. Members of Movement Jackson include leaders of the Bright Walls Mural Festival.

“This project was inspired by our families and grew out of a desire to create spaces that bring people together,” said Greg Stevenson, project lead for Movement at Ella Sharp Park. “Shared

outdoor spaces have a way of building connection and pride, and we see this as an opportunity to encourage people to get outside, stay active, and spend time together.”

The proposed project would be located within Ella Sharp Park and is intended to complement

existing park amenities while activating underutilized space north of the mini golf area. No current park features would be removed or displaced.

Concepts being explored include recreation features such as:

Climbing boulders
A skate park
A pump track
A community space with food options

The concept focuses on integrating new recreation opportunities into the existing park environment while preserving amenities residents already enjoy.

“What stood out to me was how this project complements what already exists at Ella Sharp Park while preserving current amenities and minimizing impact to city resources,” said Kelli Hoover, director of Parks and Recreation. “It allows us to thoughtfully explore new opportunities while remaining good stewards of the park and the community spaces people value.”

If developed, the project would be designed for multi-generational use, supporting physical activity, recreation and social connection. The goal is to increase park use and create a new community destination that encourages residents of all ages to gather and enjoy outdoor spaces together.

With the memorandum approved, Movement Jackson LLC may proceed with planning, fundraising and phased development concepts. Any final design, construction timeline or implementation would be subject to future city review, coordination and approvals. Construction elements, if pursued, would occur in phases over several years.