08/19/2025
🌺🌸Rachel’s Garden Update🌺🌸
Some playgrounds are built with equipment.
Rachel’s Garden was built with a story. 🌳💙
Rachel’s Garden Playground was inspired by Rachel West, daughter of Fire Captain Ricky West and lifelong Goodlettsville resident. Rachel’s testimony revealed the need for a place where children of all physical and cognitive abilities could play side-by-side. Her story moved hearts and planted the seed for what would become a landmark for our community.
In 2016, the City of Goodlettsville Fire Department Kid’s Christmas Charity stepped forward, establishing a separate 501(c)(3) account to support the dream of Rachel’s Garden. The City dedicated land in Peay Park, and with the leadership of the City Manager and City Commission, matching funds were secured for a state grant from TDEC – ORec Division.
But the true magic came from you — the citizens and businesses of Goodlettsville. Through grassroots fundraising and generous giving, over $1.7 million was raised, with half of that total coming directly from our community. Once again, Goodlettsville showed what can happen when neighbors come together.
Now, nearly a decade later, that dream is a reality. At more than 20,000 square feet, Rachel’s Garden will be a premier inclusive playground destination in Middle Tennessee, ensuring that every child — regardless of ability — has a place to laugh, grow, and belong.
✨ Join us for the celebration! ✨
Rachel's Garden Grand Opening Celebration
Sunday, September 7, 2025
2:00 PM – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Peay Park, 200 Memorial Drive, Goodlettsville, TN
After the ceremony, stay for a reception and be among the very first to experience this incredible new community space — a playground built with love, hope, and the belief that play has no limits.
📸: from our friends at Recreational Concepts