One of the key projects proposed is the construction of a new Sherwood Animal Services facility on Johnson Drive. The current shelter on North Hills Boulevard is just over 4,500 square feet, while the new building is planned to be nearly 11,000 square feet. This expansion will double capacity to 40 indoor/outdoor kennels and provide modern features such as indoor/outdoor access for dogs, five cat housing rooms with outdoor catios, and a separate quarantine area. The current facility lacks a true quarantine area. The facility will also include a surgery suite, exam and grooming rooms, and separate adoption areas for dogs and cats, all designed to improve the quality of care and increase adoptions. Cromwell Architects developed this plan using research and best practices from experts in the field and input from shelter staff. The plan incorporates improved ventilation and heating systems while saving about $500,000 in construction costs compared to the current site. At 10,940 square feet, the new shelter will better serve the community, support staff efficiency, provide a more accessible location in North Sherwood, and provide real estate for future growth. The approximate cost of construction cost is $11.5M.
Henson Park is one of Sherwood’s most popular parks, with many residents using it daily for walking. However, it was never properly engineered and was built in phases over the years on a limited budget. The current 2.4-mile path is narrow, overcrowded, and unsafe. The proposed improvements would widen the trail to make it more inclusive and functional for both walkers and bikers. The approximate construction cost is $5M.
Another project will involve the City’s existing sports complex, including several much-needed upgrades to its baseball and softball fields. Sherwood’s ballfields, once premier facilities, are now outdated and in poor condition, requiring major upgrades. The high school baseball field (Field 1) will receive a full turf surface, new backstops, fencing, canopy, and netting to align with other high school facilities. The girls’ high school softball field is planned to be relocated next to the boys’ field, simplifying scheduling and practice logistics. Across the rest of the complex, improvements will correct uneven fields, inconsistent sizes, and failing irrigation systems. Renovations include new infield turfing, re-sodded and irrigated outfields, dirt work, modernized backstops, netting, fencing, and upgraded dugouts. These changes will address long-standing issues with muddy, lumpy, and dangerous playing conditions and restore Sherwood’s reputation for quality sports facilities, thus attracting more tournaments. The approximate construction cost is $8.5M.
On the current site of Sherwood Forest, the redevelopment plan keeps the existing splash pad and pavilion while relocating the Veterans Memorial to a more accessible, central spot with nearby parking. Inspired by the design of the pavilion, the new campus will include two major facilities - an Indoor Sports Complex & a Multi-Purpose Events Center. The approximate construction cost is $52M.
The City of Sherwood owns 21 acres in the northern part of town located on Jacksonville-Cato Road. This property could become North Sherwood Park, a project designed not just as a park but as an economic driver to attract visitors, shopping, and dining to the area. Plans include six competition sand volleyball courts with shaded viewing areas, multiple restroom facilities, a misting station, and parking for both cars and buses to support tournaments. A walking and biking trail would circle the park, offering families space for recreation similar to City Hall Park. Other amenities would include pickleball courts, with two covered courts for inclement weather, and side-by-side basketball courts, one covered and one open. A concession and restroom building would support events/tournaments, while two pump tracks would provide areas for both older riders and young children. The park would also feature playgrounds with imaginative design elements, accommodating children of all ages with berms, shaded areas and swings to make it a true destination for families. The overall goal is to create a regional attraction that combines sports, recreation, and family amenities while boosting the economy of North Sherwood. The approximate construction cost is $9M.