ELKHART, Ind. -- Elkhart Parks and Recreation invites the public to celebrate the newly completed playground at Geroldean Thursby Memorial Tot Lot on Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m.

The community event will feature free Kona Ice, a dedication ceremony at 5 p.m., and a chance for residents to meet city departments.

Members of the Elkhart Public Library will also be in attendance.

City officials say in 1949, local neighbors were fed up with the vacant lot being used for trash and parking, so they raised $600 to buy the land from the county. They donated the land to the city to create a safe, welcoming playground for kids.

The park became known as the Tot Lot and was later renamed in memory of Geroldean Thursby, a 4-year-old, who lost her life after being hit by a vehicle while playing in the neighborhood.

City officials say the playground is meant to honor Thursby and the community's commitment to keeping kids safe and happy.

“By enhancing our parks, we’re building a brighter, more vibrant future for everyone who calls Elkhart home,” said Mayor Rod Roberson. "These parks are more than just parks for our neighborhoods. They are the backyard and front yard for the people living there. It's where you learn how to swing, toss a frisbee, and form friendships”

Elkhart Parks and Recreation was awarded the Community Champions GameTime Grant to make these renovations possible.

The celebration is part of a larger effort to reinvest in Elkhart's neighborhood parks. This is one of six playgrounds across the city to be newly built or upgraded in 2025, to provide more play opportunities for families.

Geroldean Thursby Memorial Tot Lot is located at the corner of Brady Street and N. 5th Street off Lexington Avenue.