When you think about what makes a town a great place to live, work, and grow a business, you might first think of tax rates or infrastructure. While those are certainly important factors for starting a business in Ossipee, there is something deeper that holds a community together. It is the shared spaces where neighbors meet, children play, and nature is preserved for everyone to enjoy. In our corner of New Hampshire, that space is Constitution Park.
Located at 505 Route 25, Constitution Park is more than just a collection of fields and trails. It is the heart of our town, and its success is largely thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers known as the Friends of Constitution Park, Ossipee (FCPO). This non-profit organization has taken on the vital mission to develop, promote, and sustain the park’s recreational and educational offerings for our residents and the surrounding communities.
The Vision Behind the Park
The story of Constitution Park is a story of community spirit. For many years, the park served as a quiet area for local recreation, but the vision of the FCPO has transformed it into a vibrant "third space." In sociology, a third space is a place outside of home and work where people can gather and build social connections. This is exactly what is happening in Ossipee.
That sense of connection shows up in simple, visible ways, like volunteers spending time at the FCPO booth, talking with neighbors, answering questions, and helping more people learn what the park has to offer.
The leadership of the FCPO consists of people who care deeply about the future of our town. The board includes Chair Edwina Boose, Vice Chair Chris Elliot, Secretary Alison Hayford, and Treasurer Tracy Fernandes. Together with a large network of volunteers, they have poured over 1,600 hours of labor into making the park what it is today. Their work ensures that the park remains a high-quality destination that enhances the recreational opportunities in Ossipee.
A Park for Everyone
What makes Constitution Park stand out is the sheer variety of features it offers. Whether you are looking for a quiet walk in the woods or an active afternoon of sports, there is something here for you. The park includes a dedicated dog park where furry friends can socialize safely, as well as a modern playground that is a favorite for local families.
For those who enjoy team sports or casual games, the park provides well-maintained ballfields, tennis courts, and pickleball courts. Pickleball has become particularly popular lately, and the growing community around it is a great example of how the park brings people together in a relaxed, welcoming way. If you prefer something a bit more unconventional, the disc golf course offers a fun challenge that winds through the natural landscape of the park.
Nature lovers are also well-served by an extensive network of trails. These paths allow residents and visitors to explore the unique environment of the Lakes Region without having to travel far. The picnic pavilion provides a shaded spot for community gatherings, birthday parties, or a simple lunch outdoors, making it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the fresh air.
The Deer Run Boardwalk Restoration
One of the most significant achievements of the FCPO is the restoration of the Deer Run boardwalk trail. This .23-mile path is a jewel of the park, leading through beautiful woodlands and wetlands directly to a viewing platform overlooking Ossipee Lake. However, after twenty-five years, the original structure had become unsafe and was no longer accessible to everyone.
The FCPO recognized that true community spaces must be inclusive. They launched a major fundraising campaign to rebuild the boardwalk as a fully ADA-accessible trail. Through the generosity of local businesses, private grants, and the support of the town, they raised $207,000 for the project. This massive effort included contributions from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation and many local donors who believe in the importance of accessibility. Seeing people out on the accessible boardwalk today makes that effort feel real in the best possible way.
The restoration was not just about replacing wood and pilings. It was a community project that honored the memory of those who helped. The new viewing platform at the end of the trail was dedicated to Jacob McConkey, a local individual who volunteered his expertise to help secure the necessary permits for the project. This dedication serves as a reminder of the personal connections that make our town special. You can read more about the project and its history on the Deer Run Trail page.
Recognition of Excellence
The hard work of the Friends of Constitution Park has not gone unnoticed. Over the last few years, the group has received several prestigious awards that highlight their impact on the region. In 2022, the Ossipee Economic Development Council was proud to present them with the Community Spirit Award. This was followed by the High Five Award from the New Hampshire Parks and Recreation department.
Most recently, the Greater Ossipee Chamber of Commerce named the FCPO the 2023 Business of the Year. While they are a non-profit, this award recognizes the professional and significant way they contribute to the local economy. A high-quality park system increases property values, attracts new residents, and encourages visitors to spend time and money at local shops and restaurants. When you discover Ossipee, you see that organizations like this are the backbone of our success.
Strengthening Our Economy Through Community
At the Ossipee Economic Development Council, we often talk about the advantages of doing business in New Hampshire. With no state income tax and no sales tax, the financial benefits are clear. However, businesses also need a healthy, happy workforce to thrive. When employees have access to places like Constitution Park, their quality of life improves, making it easier for companies to recruit and retain talent.
The partnership between the FCPO and local businesses is a perfect example of this synergy. Local establishments like Hobbs Tavern and Brewery have been consistent supporters of the park. These businesses understand that a vibrant community hub benefits everyone. Whether it is through direct donations or hosting community events, our local business owners are deeply invested in the park’s future.
How You Can Get Involved
The Friends of Constitution Park is a volunteer-driven organization, and they are always looking for more people to join their efforts. There are many ways to support the park, from participating in trail maintenance days to making a financial contribution. Every dollar raised goes directly into maintaining the park and planning for future improvements.
If you are interested in helping, you can reach out to the board directly at fcpossipee@gmail.com or visit their website at fcpossipee.org. They are always open to new ideas and fresh energy. Whether you can give a few hours of your time or a donation to help with upcoming projects, your support makes a real difference in keeping this community hub thriving.
We also encourage you to visit the park and see the results of this hard work for yourself. Take a walk on the Deer Run boardwalk, bring your dog to the park, or try your hand at a game of pickleball. The park is open from dawn to dusk every day, and it is a wonderful place to experience the natural beauty of the Lakes Region.
Looking Toward the Future
The vision for Constitution Park does not stop with the boardwalk. The FCPO continues to imagine new features and ways to make the park more accessible and engaging for all ages. As Ossipee grows, the park will remain a vital part of our town's identity. It is a place where nature and community meet, and where the future of our town is being built one trail at a time.
For those considering a move to our area, Constitution Park is a shining example of what makes our town special. You can find more information about making the transition to our community on our move here page. We are proud to support the Friends of Constitution Park and look forward to seeing what they will achieve next.
Visiting Constitution Park
If you are planning a visit, the park is easy to find at 505 Route 25 in Ossipee. It is a central location that is convenient for residents and those traveling through the Lakes Region. You can find more details on the park features and maps on their official website.
We are lucky to have such a dedicated group of people looking after our public spaces. The Friends of Constitution Park have shown us what is possible when a community comes together with a shared goal. They have turned a simple park into a true community hub, and for that, we are all very grateful.
If you have questions about how the OEDC supports local initiatives or if you are interested in bringing your business to our supportive environment, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you succeed in Ossipee.