About
Mission Statement
The Crestwood Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and visitors. We provide recreation and leisure opportunities, facilities, open space, and related services to ensure Crestwood remains a vibrant, active community. Our goal is to offer something for all ages and interests, promoting discovery, play, and connection.
History
The foundation of Crestwood's parks system began with the creation of the first Park Board in 1959. The City’s first park development began with Ferndale Park, and over the years, additional parks were acquired and developed, including Sanders Park, Spellman Park, Rayburn Park, and Whitecliff Park. In 1976, the Parks and Recreation Department officially began operating full-time, overseeing the city's growing park system, which now spans 120 acres.
In 2000, a ½ cent Park and Stormwater Sales Tax was approved by voters to help fund park operations and maintenance, further strengthening the department's ability to serve the community.
In late 2021, the City of Crestwood began developing its first-ever comprehensive Parks Master Plan to guide the future of parks, facilities, and recreation services. The preliminary plan was presented to the public on January 17, 2023, at a Park Board meeting, allowing residents to review and provide feedback. Building upon this plan, voters approved Prop A in 2024, securing funding for priority projects.
Today, the department oversees:
- Crestwood Community Center
- Crestwood Aquatic Center
- Historic Sappington Park, six other City parks, Grant’s Trail, two cemeteries, and other city properties
- A wide variety of programs and events for all ages, including sports leagues, fitness classes, arts and crafts, day trips, camps, and more
Department Policies
Crestwood Parks and Recreation welcomes individuals of all abilities to participate in our programs, activities, and events.
If you need accommodations due to a disability, please let us know when registering or at least 48 hours in advance. Some modifications—such as inclusion support staff—may take up to two weeks or more to arrange.
To request accommodations or notify us of medical needs (e.g., medications or allergies), contact:
Executive Director, Municipal Partners for Inclusive Recreation Terri Johnson, CTRS/CPRP
- Email: tjohnson@desperesmo.org
- Voice: 314-835-6157
- Relay Missouri: 711
For general accommodation questions, you may also call the Crestwood Community Center at 314-729-4860. If we are unable to meet your needs, a formal ADA grievance procedure is available.
The Crestwood Parks and Recreation Department offers opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Our goal is to support personal growth in a safe environment. Please help us maintain a positive and enjoyable experience by following our Fair Play Policy.
Individuals using parks and recreation facilities are expected to:
- Wear appropriate attire, including a shirt and shoes, in the Community Center.
- Refrain from using abusive or profane language.
- Avoid actions that place themselves or others at risk, such as:
- Biting
- Fighting
- Hitting
- Kicking
- Spitting
- Respect others and their belongings.
- Respect others' right to an odor-free environment by practicing proper hygiene and refraining from using scented products that may be offensive or cause medical sensitivities.
- Not participate in unlawful activities (e.g., illegal drugs, weapons, vandalism, theft).
- Remain with their instructor, follow directions, and avoid causing disruptions. Respect all equipment, supplies, and facilities.
Persons who endanger their own or others' safety will be removed from the park facility and/or recreation program. Other infractions will be addressed as necessary by parks and recreation department staff. If children are involved, their parents or guardians will be contacted. The safety of our participants is our primary concern.
Thank you for your cooperation with this policy.
When the Lindbergh School District cancels school, delays its start, or shifts to virtual learning due to inclement weather, all morning programs at the Crestwood Community Center will be canceled, and the building will not open until 10 a.m.
A decision about afternoon and evening programs will be made by 11 a.m. Participants will not be contacted individually unless an instructor cancels a class while the facility remains open.
To stay informed:
- Follow the City of Crestwood Parks and Recreation Facebook page.
- Call 314-729-4860 after 11 a.m.
- Tune in to local media for Lindbergh school closure information.
The Community Center may close at any time if weather conditions create a risk to the safety of guests or staff.
Program Refund Policy
The Crestwood Parks and Recreation Department strives to provide quality recreation programs for you and your family. If you register for a program and are unable to attend, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at least five days in advance of the program start date to receive a refund.
If you are unable to participate in a recreation program due to health reasons, present a physician's statement as proof of illness and/or injury, and a refund will be issued. If the program is in progress, the fee will be prorated based on the remaining classes. If we cancel a program or change the program dates or times, preventing you from participating, a full refund will be issued.
Refunds for registrations made with cash or check will be sent by mail to the address on file. Refunds for registrations made with a credit card will be credited back to your account. This can take up to 10 days. Trips, camps, and special events are exempt from this policy. Once a class starts, no refunds will be given.
Membership Refund Policy
All passes and memberships are nonrefundable.
The City of Crestwood reserves the right to photograph participants in classes, events, programs, or while using city facilities and properties. These photos may be used in print and electronic publicity without compensation.
Attendance at city programs and events constitutes consent to be photographed. If you do not wish to be photographed or have your or your child’s photo used, please inform the photographer or event staff before the program begins. A photography release form may be required for certain activities.
The Community Center Fitness Center is open during normal operating hours.
- Youth ages 12–14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Individuals ages 15–17 may use the facility independently if a signed parental release form is on file.
- No one under the age of 12 is permitted in the Fitness Center.
Contact Us
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Eilien Ramirez
Director of Parks and RecreationPhone: 314-729-4861
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Phil Lanio
Manager of RecreationPhone: 314-729-4863
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Ryan Dorough
Recreation Specialist – Special Events & CampsPhone: 314-729-4862
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Erica Jackson
Recreation Specialist – FitnessPhone: 314-729-4865
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Megan Reininger
Recreation SpecialistPhone: 314-729-4864
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Terri Johnson
Executive Director of Municipal PartnersPhone: 314-835-6157