A new age of recreation in Bainbridge and Decatur County starts on Friday July, 1 when the Recreation Authority officially takes over control from Bainbridge Leisure Services.

Many of the cosmetic changes have already been made in anticipation of the official switch. The logos on the vehicles used by the department have been changed and news signs and banners have been put up throughout the Bill Reynolds Sports Park.

“We’ve replaced all the signs with the new logo and a fresh look,” Recreation Authority Executive Director Al Kelly said. “We are looking forward to moving ahead.”

The Recreation Authority has also launched its new website PlayBainbridge.com, which is the one stop shop for all things related to recreation in Bainbridge.

“We wanted one source for people to go find out the programs we’re offering and announcements.” Kelly said. “Trying to do a better job getting the word out about what the Recreation Authority is offering.”

The website will allow parents to register their children for youth sports including football and cheerleading which opens on July 1. There is also a calendar of youth sports events that the authority is hosting. These include the Oscar Jackson Camps that continue throughout July and a Sprint on the Flint triathlon being held in October.

“After a year of preparation we feel we are prepared to begin the actual administration of these programs,” Recreation Authority chairman Jeff Findley said. “First up we have youth football and youth cheerleading and are excited about the first Bainbridge triathlon coming up in October.”

With the change over on Friday the Recreation Authority will also officially close the Pines Golf Course over which they were given control by Decatur County.

Parents can also learn more about the sports being offered by the authority and provide feedback through a community survey the authority is offering through July 1.