Ogden officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, to celebrate the opening of a new all-abilities playground and eight pickleball courts at Lester Park. The event marked the completion of the first phase of a revitalization project for the park.
Ogden City Executive Director of Public Services Justin Anderson stated that the opening was a momentous occasion and the culmination of approximately two years of effort. Anderson noted that the city intended to begin the process through phases rather than waiting for the entire project to be finished to avoid frustrating engaged community members.
Mayor Ben Nadolski said the neighborhood had waited long enough to see the park revitalized and that it was time to start the process. He described the current opening as the first of many celebrations and community gatherings to come.
The new all-abilities playground is designed to welcome children across a spectrum of abilities, providing children with and without mobility challenges more opportunities to play together. The eight new pickleball courts are intended to expand recreational opportunities for a sport that has grown in popularity among Golden Hours participants.
Following the ceremony, many children gathered to utilize the new large playground structure.
The first phase of the Lester Park revitalization is not yet fully complete. According to Anderson, work will continue through June 2027 and includes the installation of irrigation, electrical, water, and sewer utilities, as well as landscaping.
Other amenities planned for the park that have yet to be funded include a game area, additional pathways, an ice skating rink, and a new art pavilion.
Construction for the initial phase of the Lester Park improvements is scheduled to continue until June 2027.
