6/26/18 – 5:14 A.M.

The expansion of the Blanchard Valley Health System Miracle Park started Monday. The Courier reports the $200,000 project will add 2,000 square feet of playground surface for children ages 1 to 4. It will also include a pavilion, bleachers, two accessible picnic tables, and landscaping. The Miracle Park features a baseball field with a cushioned rubberized surface that allows players with disabilities to play baseball.

The expansion is part of the ramp up to host the National Miracle League All-Star Weekend in September. The event will include mixers, baseball games, and a gala celebrating the accomplishments of the weekend.

A group of volunteers planning the event say they’ve raised about 95 percent of the money needed for the renovations. They also received $100,000 from the state through Ohio Department of Natural Resources funds.

MORE: The Courier