On November 28, the Wharton-Smith Tampa Commercial team joined dignitaries and citizens from the City of Zephyrhills to break ground on Hercules Park, the first community park built in Zephyrhills in 40 years. See photos and video.

Hercules Park will feature a playground, splash pad, nature trails, open pavilions, and restrooms, meeting the needs of the 18,000 residents of Zephyrhills. Designed by Kimley-Horn, the park pays homage to its heritage by bringing aspects of the Hercules Powder Company, which previously owned 80 acres of land and established Camp No. 39 on the site over 70 years ago.

Zephyrhills Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson noted that this was indeed a community park. “Great parks make great communities,” she said. “I’m so happy that our community in Zephyrhills gets to say, ‘I helped design this.’”

“This goes beyond recreation – it’s a commitment to building community and providing a vibrant hub for families,” said Project Manager Max Otero. “Our goal is to create a space that preserves Zephyrhills’ heritage and becomes a source of pride, representing the essence of the city’s ‘Jump Right In’ slogan.”

Construction is slated to begin in January 2024.