The new year is bringing new challenges to the Terre Haute Parks Department.

The most difficult challenge of 2009 will be dealing with budget cuts.

Parks Superintendent Eddie Bird would like hire park rangers. However, this is unlikely because jobs cuts are probable this year.

Another possibility is a concert staring David Cook. The board is discussing bringing in the American Idol with local ties.

You can expect to see new playground equipment and more parking this year.

The location for the Fourth of July fireworks show has not been decided. Several locations are being considered including downtown Terre Haute.