Design + Planning for Revitalizing Community Recreation
Thrasher partnered with the Marion County Parks and Recreation Commission (MCPARC) to deliver a full-scale park redevelopment at Mary Lou Retton Park—a longtime recreational hub in Fairmont, West Virginia.
The concession stand, press box, restrooms, and pavilion had outlived their usefulness and no longer met accessibility, safety, or aesthetic standards. Thrasher provided full site design and construction management, removing outdated structures while preserving the football and little league fields.
The new sports complex includes:
- Modern restrooms and locker rooms for high-traffic events
- Centralized concession and press box with better visibility and operations
- Durable dugouts built for safety and longevity
Structures use low-maintenance, high-performance materials like painted concrete masonry, standing seam metal roofing, and corrugated metal panels. Perforated upper walls over operable windows allow daylight and ventilation while deterring vandalism—ideal for public recreation spaces.
To improve the spectator experience, Thrasher added cantilevered umbrella canopies in MCPARC’s signature colors, combining function with visual identity.
Creating Public Space That Celebrates Local Legacy
A newly designed central plaza now connects the concession stand and restroom facilities, serving as a welcoming hub between the two athletic fields. This pedestrian-friendly space encourages community interaction during tournaments, youth league games, and public events.
At the heart of the plaza, Thrasher introduced two dedicated “Winners’ Walls”—custom display features that provide MCPARC with an organized and visually striking way to honor past athletes and championship teams. Replacing years of scattered signage, these walls create a permanent, dignified tribute to local sports history.
In addition to modern upgrades, the design preserves a beloved community landmark: Tipi’s Tower, named in honor of a well-known local figure. Rather than removing it, Thrasher restored the structure with fresh paint, updated roofing, and new signage—maintaining its sentimental value while ensuring it aligns with the park’s updated architectural aesthetic.
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