A public-private collaboration that has resulted in the transformation of a city park is set to be dedicated this Saturday.

While the work at Lacy Park on the city’s east end has been completed, a 10 a.m. ribbon-cutting event will formally open the park, highlighted by the sensory playground specifically defined for children with special needs.

The park is located at the corner of Madison Ave. and Marion St.

The project totals roughly $500,000 in improvements and includes a $265,000 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources grant.

The Rotary Club was instrumental in raising the funds locally for the sensory playground part of the improvements.

Those enhancements went far beyond just the playground though and include new restrooms, parking (which the park previously did not have), a new pavilion, paths to the various park amenities and improvements to the basketball court.

The playground equipment is specifically designed to tailor to special needs children including those with tactile, auditory and sensory challenges. There’s also a swing specifically designed for those in a wheelchair.

Saturday’s dedication is open to the public.

Those in attendance who presumably will speak include Erin Wiley Moyers with the DCNR, Mayor Maurice Cashman, Commissioner Jeff Eggleston and Dr. Kathleen M. Bastow. State Senator Scott Hutchinson and State Representative Kathy Rapp have also been invited.

Music will be provided by the Warren County Youth Orchestra.