RAYMORE, MO (July 14, 2026) – The Raymore park system is extensive. With more than 300 acres of parkland, 20+ miles of trails, 10 parks, multiple playgrounds, restroom facilities, baseball, soccer and football fields, tennis and pickleball courts, shelter houses, skate park, disc golf course, fishing pond, lake, dock and amphitheater, it’s hard to believe that it’s all maintained by a team of just six staff members and a few seasonal workers.

Park Superintendent Steve Rulo, along with Crew Leader Jeff Schmill and Park Workers Eddie Gomez, Cody York, Jacob Wickey and James Stewart take great pride in the work they do year round to keep our parks safe and maintained. 

This work includes inspections of playground equipment, walking trails and park structures, upkeep of green spaces including mowing-oh, so much mowing!-pruning, landscaping, trash collection, maintenance of restroom and shelter facilities and seasonal preparations from winterizing facilities to prepping fields for our incredibly busy sports seasons. Park workers must also quickly respond to vandalism and storm damage and make routine repairs to minimize downtime and keep park amenities open for the community.

Access to well-maintained parks encourages physical activity for all ages. Green spaces and natural areas allow residents a place to connect with nature and reduce everyday stress. Safe and clean playgrounds give children a place to develop social skills, build confidence and simply be kids.

Our parks are wonderful gathering places for family and community events, strengthening our sense of community pride.

Accessible parks ensure that outdoor recreation is something everyone can enjoy.

July is Park and Recreation Month. It’s an excellent time to celebrate not just the green spaces we love, but the dedicated staff who keep them beautiful, safe and welcoming. Next time you visit a Raymore park, take a moment to appreciate everything around you, and if you see a member of our Park crew, let them know their work matters.