Children in Monticello will soon have a new place to play, thanks to the Bicentennial Park being built in Coopers Ferry Park.

     The park, named for the city’s 200th anniversary, will be open from about 10 a.m. to dark, said Monticello Mayor Dave Nichols.

     “This project idea started last year,” said Nichols. “We hope to use it as a draw to downtown.”

     Work on the project began in June, and Nichols said the park would open as soon as a few other issues are fixed. He said one holdup on the project was fencing, which has been received but not yet installed.

     “We don’t want to officially open it until the fence is installed,” he said. “Being on the river we don’t any kids to go off into the water.”

     The park is part of a revitalization effort in the downtown area, Nichols said.

     He said plans are being made to build a pier and create a river walk area. They also plan to do some landscaping around the splash park, as well as install benches and other amenities.

     “Being a small town, it’s going to be done in phases,” he said. “We’re getting the prices on everything right now.”

     Residents said they are excited to have a new attraction in town.

     “I hope it will be an asset to our community,” said Hershel Harp, agency manager at Monticello’s Farm Bureau office. “I think it will bring people to our town.”