DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — City leaders, community partners and residents gathered Thursday morning at James Oates Park to celebrate the opening of Dothan’s second outdoor fitness court.
Billy Powell, director of Leisure Services for the City of Dothan, welcomed the crowd at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. He said the new court marks another step in the city’s commitment to promoting health and wellness.
“This is just a great day. I’m excited for us to be able to open a second fitness court here in Dothan,” Powell said. “These outdoor courts are free to the public and provide seven different stations for people ages 14 and up to come out, strengthen, and exercise at their own pace.”
The city’s first outdoor fitness court opened at Westgate Park, where it is used daily, according to Powell. Each court is designed for body-weight training and can be paired with a national fitness court app to help set goals and provide workout guidance.
Mayor Mark Saliba praised the addition, noting the park’s scenic backdrop.
“What a beautiful day it is to be out here celebrating our second fitness court,” Saliba said. “How can you get a better view than having a workout right next to a pond with walking trails? We are so proud of what this city has accomplished in our parks, and this facility is free for all to enjoy.”
Saliba thanked the city commission, Leisure Services staff and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama for making the project possible.
Brian Edwards, senior vice president of Health Services for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, said the company was proud to partner with Dothan on the project.
“This is a place you can come to keep people well,” Edwards said. “There’s no co-pay, no deductible, no monthly fee like a gym. It’s here for you anytime, and it’s a wonderful way to support physical and mental health in the community.”
The ceremony also featured a head-to-head challenge between first responders. Dothan Police Officer Kyle Coker and Dothan Firefighter Denae Reed faced off on the new equipment, with Reed edging out the win just a second ahead of Coker.
James Oates Park, named in honor of the late civic leader, already features a playground, a one-mile walking trail and 12 ball fields. The new fitness court adds to the park’s amenities, offering residents more opportunities to stay active outdoors.
