Ephrata parks director outlines growth, upgrades and vision

EPHRATA — Despite a summer marked by smoke, wind and cooler temperatures, the City of Ephrata's Parks and Recreation Department posted record participation numbers in 2026 and is looking ahead to major improvements at Patrick Park, Splash Zone and a future neighborhood park in the Peachtree development. Parks and Recreation Director Josh Johnson presented the department's annual report to the Ephrata City Council during a budget workshop Tuesday, highlighting accomplishments from 2026 and outlining goals for future projects.