In 1994 this 12 acre park in Dania Beach was named in honor of Dania Beach activist Patrick J Meli who spent the last years of his life maintaining it for the children in this community. Meli was a railroad engineer with Penn Central Railroad, After he retired he was the Griffin Civic Association president for 28 years and put money into improvements like the sports fields and lights. He also helped start a Crime Watch program that operated out of the park. Originally named Griffin Park, this was a Broward County park until the city voted to annex it and the surrounding areas in 1991. Meli passed away at the age of 94 on June 12, 1993. After his death the city renamed the park in honor of his contributions.
This park is tucked into a residential neighborhood in Dania Beach. Park amenities include a recreation room with a full kitchen, playground, basketball court, two handball courts, tennis courts, a swimming pool, outdoor exercise equipment, and two baseball fields.
While walking around for exercise I saw several other people doing the same. This park is also home to the Precious Paws Pet Park and Memorial Garden. Whether two footed or four, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this clean and well appointed park. read more