The Community Backyard: Toledo Park Brings Greenspace to Urban Neighborhood

Inez Nash Park transforms a community vision for active recreation into reality. In Toledo’s Warren–Sherman Neighborhood, where many households lack access to private greenspace, the park creates a safe, welcoming place to move, gather, and play close to home. Shaped through an inclusive community engagement process, the design reflects resident priorities and organizes high-value amenities within a compact, accessible civic landscape.

The park’s versatility supports a range of everyday uses, anchored by a perimeter walking loop that establishes clear circulation and connects naturally to the surrounding neighborhood. Durable furnishings, paving, and lighting enhance comfort and usability throughout the day, while the layout prioritizes safety and visibility with clear sightlines linking play areas, seating, and the central plaza. Two age-appropriate playgrounds blend nature-based and traditional play elements, encouraging climbing, balancing, and imaginative play.

Adjacent to the Wayman D. Palmer YMCA, the park provides flexible space for youth programs, wellness classes, and community activities to expand outdoors. An irrigated natural-grass athletic field and pickleball courts support recreation across ages and skill levels, while an open-air shelter with integrated power anchors gatherings and classes. Picnic areas and an amphitheater lawn accommodate informal use, small performances, and seasonal programming.

From the outset, the City of Toledo committed to delivering the program residents endorsed, investing in a lasting civic asset that brings health, recreation, and connection within easy reach. Named for community advocate Inez Nash, the park now serves as the Warren–Sherman Neighborhood’s shared backyard, introducing accessible greenspace where it has the greatest impact.