The City of Columbia has temporarily halted plans to rename the basketball courts at Douglass Park following significant community feedback.
The proposed dedication to the late University of Missouri women’s basketball assistant coach Willie Cox met with resistance from local residents who felt the renaming did not reflect the park’s historical significance and the individuals who have directly contributed to its legacy.
Renovation Plans and Community Response
In early February 2025, Columbia’s Parks and Recreation Department announced a comprehensive renovation project for Douglass Park, located on Providence Road. The planned enhancements, estimated at over $900,000, include:
- New Park Shelter: Relocating and upgrading the existing shelter to better serve visitors.
- Basketball Court Upgrades: Installing new goals, applying custom sport court surfacing, and adding LED lighting to improve playability and safety.
- Court Dedication: Proposing to honor Willie Cox by featuring the Mizzou logo at center court.
However, the announcement sparked concerns among community members who felt that individuals with deeper ties to Douglass Park and its programs should be recognized instead.
Anthony Johnson, a lifelong Columbia resident and founder of Columbia Supreme Basketball, expressed that figures such as Scotty Williams and Rufus “Doc” Broadus, who were instrumental in local youth programs like Moonlight Hoops, deserved acknowledgment.
Moonlight Hoops, initiated in the late 1980s, provided at-risk youth with a constructive outlet and significantly impacted the community.
City Council’s Decision and Future Actions
In response to the community’s feedback, the Columbia City Council unanimously decided to proceed with the physical renovations but postponed the renaming decision.
They have tasked the Parks and Recreation Department with developing a comprehensive plan for increased community engagement to ensure that future decisions align with the desires of those who utilize and cherish the park.
Parks and Recreation Director Gabe Huffington indicated that this additional input process is not expected to delay the project’s completion, slated for early June 2025.
Funding and Support
The renovation project is financially supported through a combination of sources:
- Park Sales Tax: Allocating funds approved by voters for park improvements.
- Grants: Securing additional financial assistance to cover project costs.
- Private Donations: Receiving contributions from entities such as the University of Missouri and the Veterans United Foundation, which collectively donated $100,000 towards the project.
The situation surrounding Douglass Park’s basketball court renaming highlights the importance of community involvement in decisions affecting public spaces.
By pausing the renaming process and seeking further input, the City of Columbia demonstrates its commitment to honoring the true legacy of Douglass Park and ensuring that any dedications resonate with the community’s collective memory and values.