A municipality with insufficient parks and recreation facilities is like a house without a backyard. Dick committed himself to bringing the very best park system to the residents of Henrico County, and the resulting amenities he championed will continue to attract new residents and businesses to the county for many years to come.
Dick negotiated for large tracts of green space to satisfy the needs of his constituents. RF&P Park on Mountain Road, for instance, has become one of the most alluring complexes of baseball and football fields in the nation. Built on land worth millions of dollars donated by RF&P Railroad at Dick Glover’s urging, this park boasts several quality baseball diamonds, including fields used by Glen Allen’s Youth Athletic Association for both girls and boys who play America’s most enduring game. Crowning it all is the Glen Allen Stadium modeled after Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore. On multiple occasions, the Glen Allen Stadium has hosted the Babe Ruth League World Series for 11-year olds, 13-year olds and 14-year olds.
Nearby Laurel Recreation Skate Park on Hungary Road has been hailed with an achievement award by the National Association of Counties. Along with athletic complexes, Dick also increased the number of parks in the County, and was committed to their maintenance. Just think of the serenity of Echo Lake Park and a stroll around the water or a quiet time on a bench, reflecting on the wonders of nature.
