Dodson Park: A New Gem for Sneads

By: Shelia Mader

A heartfelt gift and community collaboration have given Sneads a charming new addition: Dodson Park, a small yet meaningful public park honoring the memory of Joe and Lola Dodson.

The park sits on land generously donated by Charles Dodson, a Sneads High School basketball alumnus and retired circuit judge from Tallahassee. Dodson donated the land in tribute to his parents, Joe and Lola Dodson, and their children. Joe once taught at Sneads High School before embarking on a successful legal career.

Dodson Park was developed with the help of a $200,000 grant, which funded the playground equipment, fencing, sodding, sidewalks, and lighting. The space, though compact at about a quarter of an acre, offers features for children of all ages, including play areas for ages two to five and five to 12, as well as benches and walkways for bikes and pedestrians.

“This park is not just a place for kids to play,” said Sneads Town Manager Bill Rentz. “It’s a beautiful entrance into town from the interstate, a safe and welcoming space that’s fenced in and soon to be lit for evening use.”

Lighting will be installed soon, with help from REA who will place halogen lights on existing poles to improve visibility and deter vandalism.

The town extends its gratitude to Melvin Engineering, particularly Hunter Potts, for helping scale and design the project to fit within budget while still delivering quality.

“This is something positive for our town,” Rentz said. “It’s a small park with a big heart, made possible by good people who care about Sneads.”