OXFORD — Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA) has announced its 2019 Annual Awards of Excellence winners and a local agency has been recognized.

The Oxford Parks and Recreation Department won a second place award in the Capital Improvement Project: $2.5 million and up category for the Oxford Aquatic Center.

The Oxford Aquatic Center consists of many amenities for all ages, including various size slides, basketball hoops, diving boards, a lazy river, play structure and zero depth activity pool. It also includes a separate eight lane competition pool.

“It’s an honor to be recognized, and we’re grateful to have such an amazing facility here in Oxford,” said Casey Wooddell, Director of Parks and Recreation.

The facility was built by general contractor Wilcon Corp. out of Kettering, Ohio, along with Patterson Pools out of Columbus.

“This project was a prime example of cooperation between contractors and city staff, and working collectively as a whole to build the best possible aquatic center,” Wooddell stated. “The first summer was very successful, and we’re looking forward to next season.”

The OPRA Annual Awards of Excellence will be presented at a banquet hosted by the association on Feb. 4, 2020 at the Kalahari Convention Center in Sandusky.

“Parks and recreation professionals throughout Ohio work every day to improve the quality of life of the people they serve,” said OPRA Executive Director Woody Woodward. “This effort is a shining example of that kind of work, and we are pleased to be able to present this award.”

The awards are judged by a panel of parks and recreation professionals from around Ohio.

Incorporated in 1963, OPRA is a non-profit, public interest organization representing over 1400 professionals and citizen board members striving to provide quality parks and recreation facilities and opportunities for all Ohioans while protecting and preserving Ohio’s natural resources, positively impacting local economies and health and wellness of its citizens.