With the main project complete, the staff at the Troy Parks and Recreation Department is now set on finding ways to enhance the new Troy Miracle League Playground.

The TPRD staff is selling oak trees and plaques at the new facility make the playground more appealing to all citizens of Troy.

The price is $250 per tree and stone, and supplies are limited. The stones will be placed next to the tree and can be engraved in memory or honor of whomever the customer chooses.

Dan Smith, director of Troy Parks and Recreation, feels the stones would make the perfect holiday gift.

“We are going to be buying and planting the trees in the month of December, which is just right around the corner,” Smith said. “I have had a number of people approach me already wanting to buy a tree and stone. I feel that it would make an excellent Christmas gift to give someone a certificate that says a tree has been planted in memory or honor of someone.”

The idea of planting trees is not a new one at the recreation department.

The staff took the same approach in 2010 after the construction of the walking trail, located behind the TPRD main office.

“We sold trees for the walking trails as well,” Smith said. “We called it the Memorial Tree Walk. People walked in that area, and we are hoping to achieve the same type of function with these trees.”

The playground was funded through a massive community effort, raising more than $245,000, including a $50,000 grant, a $50,000 donation from the City of Troy, a $25,000 donation by the Pike County Commission, and donations ranging from $1 to thousands offered by individuals and businesses alike.

Smith said the trees would be functional as well as decorative.

“There are some man-made pavilion structures at the location at this time,” Smith said. “But nothing can replace the shade put off by a beautiful live oak tree. We want the playground to be enjoyed by all members of the family, and this will help us do that.

The trees will be available for purchase through the month of December.