Taylor Farm Park offers a BMX course, hiking trails and water to cool off

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. — Despite the hot temperatures, dozens turned out for the grand opening Tuesday at Taylor Farm Park in Sandston, Va. The 20-acre park is nestled on what was once 99 acres of farmland in eastern Henrico that had been owned by the Taylor family since the 1850s.

Sallie Cochran said her father had wanted a park on his land since the 1990s. Back then, he tried to work with the county to give him 100 acres of land, but “it wasn’t possible at the time.”

It wasn’t until 2016 that the Taylors were finally able to sell the land to Henrico County.

Although Sallie’s father died before the park was completed, Cochran’s 97-year-old mother was able to witness its completion.

“This is my parents’ dream come true,” Cochran said. “We’re just… what you’ve done with it is amazing.”

The new park includes an event lawn and a memorial to first responders and the military.

There is a circular path that runs through the park and connects neighborhoods and facilities such as a paddling pool, several playgrounds and a nature trail.

There is also a skate park and a BMX track.

BMX shop owner Chad Powers said, “It’s going to be great” and “bring a lot of people together.”

Henrico Board President Tyrone Nelson said Taylor Farm Park is the first park to open in the eastern part of the county in 40 years and he hopes it will become a destination for families across Virginia.

“I’m glad that young children, young people and teenagers can come here and experience things they can’t experience anywhere else,” Nelson said.

Cochran said she hopes the community gets as much out of the land as her family does.

“The thought of all the memories I have is wonderful, but the thought of the memories of the people who come to this park now and for generations to come – that’s even more beautiful,” she said.

Taylor Farm Park is located at 200 Whiteside Road in Sandston.

Do you know of any good news from your community? Click here to email WTVR.com and the CBS 6 News team.