UPDATE! 

With days remaining before UA plans to close the Harry Pritchett Running Park to the campus community and general public for the exclusive use of UA’s Track & Field Team on April 1, come out with your friends and neighbors at 4PM on Sunday March 29 to show UA’s decision makers just how much we want to help find a way to keep this precious greenspace in our lives and community for decades to come.

The jewel of East Tuscaloosa and a haven in hectic times, Pritchett Park was given to the University decades ago and has become an important way UA connects with and provides enjoyment to the local community. Let’s keep it open!

For more information: 

keeppritchettparkopen@gmail.com

Facebook: Keep Pritchett Park Open

The Petition:

We are university faculty, staff, alumni, students, and community members who regularly enjoy walking, running, playing, studying, making art, worshiping, enjoying our pets, and being in fellowship with each other and with nature at the Harry Pritchett Running Park. Allowing public enjoyment of this beautiful property has been a visible way the University has upheld its core value of public outreach that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Alabama.  

We were shocked and saddened to learn this past week that the University plans to close this space to the public. There was no explanation given in the announcement, and this closure is contrary to the community service aspects of the University’s mission and vision. There are many ways community members could help provide support to keep the Running Park open and also make space for the needs of the cross country team. We urge you to reconsider this decision and to be in conversation with local community members about changes that could make public access sustainable.