Beyond the bridge: Kimberling City builds community, looks to the future

When you hear the name Kimberling City, the iconic bridge or the waters of Table Rock Lake may first come to mind, but there is much more happening as the city looks toward a busy fall and its future.

Kimberling City Administrator Dawne Gardner told the Branson Globe the city is seeing momentum through upcoming events and continued progress on the future Multi-Generational Park. Years of planning, collaboration and visioning are moving closer to reality as the city moves closer to advertising for construction bids.

“What excites me most is that this isn't just a park project. It's a community project,” Gardner said.

Community support continues to be an important part of bringing the full vision of the park to life. The Kimberling City Parks Foundation’s Charitable Campaign is ongoing, while the Park Naming Campaign offers individuals, families, businesses and organizations another opportunity to become part of the project.

“These naming opportunities allow people to celebrate family roots, recognize loved ones, honor community connections, or demonstrate their commitment to Kimberling City's future. It gives community members a chance to leave a lasting mark on a place that will serve generations to come,” Gardner said.

The vision extends beyond recreational amenities. Gardner said the park is intended to become a place where families gather, children play, neighbors connect and memories are made.

“The Multi-Generational Park is a great example of what can happen when a community comes together around a shared vision. Every donation, every sponsorship and every naming opportunity helps move us one step closer to creating something that will benefit families for generations,” Gardner said.

Gardner also invited residents and visitors to take part in what is happening throughout the city.

“We invite everyone to join us at our upcoming events, support local businesses, learn more about the Charitable Campaign and explore ways to become part of the park's legacy through the Park Naming Campaign,” Gardner said. “Together, we're creating something special for Kimberling City, not just for today, but for the generations who will call this community home in the years ahead.”

Upcoming Kimberling City events include National Night Out Oct. 6, Trunk or Treat Oct. 31, the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Nov. 14 and the Christmas Parade Dec. 5.

For more information about future events, the Charitable Campaign, Park Naming Campaign or ways to get involved, contact Kimberling City at 417-739-4903 or visit City Hall at 34 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.