Construction officially commenced Thursday evening on the renovation of Hickory Tree Community Park.

Osceola County Commission Chairman Fred Hawkins Jr., center, as well as representatives of the design and construction firms working on the project and members of the St. Cloud Youth Football program, who will ultimately benefit from the improvements, paricipated in the ceremonial breaking of ground.

At left, Hawkins addresses the assembly to highlight the improved amenities coming to the football field and surrounding area, including lights for nighttime play and bleachers that can accommodate up to 750 spectators.