Kent County Levy Court proudly hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony today, December 3, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., to unveil the newly constructed pavilion at Big Oak Park. This addition marks a significant enhancement to one of Kent County’s most beloved community spaces, providing residents and visitors with a versatile venue for events, gatherings, and recreational activities. 

The ceremony was attended by key leaders, including Commissioner At-Large Terry L. Pepper, Commissioner First District Joanne Masten, Acting County Administrator Kevin Sipple, Assistant County Administrator Lauren Gutierrez, and Director of Community Services Jeremy Sheppard.

Jeremy Sheppard, Director of Community Services, highlighted the role of the Parks and Recreation team in the pavilion’s development: "The new pavilion at Big Oak Park is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our Parks and Recreation team. Their commitment to excellence and their passion for serving the community have brought this project to life, creating a space where residents can gather, celebrate, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors for years to come." 

The new pavilion at Big Oak Park is a 20'x40' Enwood structure designed to blend functionality with durability. It features a concrete floor and drip apron, ensuring a stable and weather-resistant foundation for year-round use. Equipped with eight six-person picnic tables, including a designated ADA-compliant space, the pavilion is designed to be accessible and inclusive for all visitors. Completed at just under $50,000, the project showcases the efficient use of resources while enhancing the park's amenities. While the pavilion does not include electrical connections, its thoughtful design provides a versatile, inviting space for community gatherings and recreational activities. 

Kent County Parks and Recreational Department does not issue exclusive use permits for pavilions, only sports fields. For further information, please contact Kent County Parks and Recreation at ParksRec@kentcountyde.gov. 

Big Oak County Park is a ninety-acre site that includes forty acres leased to the Delaware Aero Space Education Foundation for Space and Earth Science education and recreation. The location of the DASEF facility and Big Oak County Park’s free public access recreation and conservation demonstration areas make it a major regional outdoor destination. Kent County Levy Court dedicated Big Oak County Park and opened it to public use on September 30, 2006. Many recreation and conservation development and preservation activities have been underway since the spring of 2003. 

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