Tephford Park is named after police officer Brian Tephford who was killed in Tamarac in 2006 while conducting a traffic stop. The park that bears his name was dedicated in 2008.
The park is the start of the Cypress Creek Greenway, 16.5 miles of paved paths that lead from the edge of the Everglades in Tamarac down to the ocean in Pompano. The part of the path in the park parallels Southgate Boulevard on one side and C-14 Canal on the other and continues for nearly 3 miles under power lines.
The actual linear park is 1.5 miles with three parking lots that are spaced along the perimeter. This makes it an ideal spot for runners and bikers and I saw a lot of people doing both on my visit. Other park amenities include a playground with children's rock climbing wall, fishing pier, picnic pavilions, benches, and restrooms although they were locked when I checked.
In addition to all of the things that make this park great for humans it is also popular with burrowing owls as well. All along the path were areas roped off for burrowing owls. Although I didn't see any actual owls I saw a lot of signs alerting to their presence.
This park is great for runners, bikers, and walkers, as well as families who are just looking for a place to take the kids to run around. At the park dedication Brian Tephford's widow expressed how grateful she was to have this park as a memorial to her children's father. Although they are probably grown now the park remains to honor a man who lost his life in the line of duty. It's a sacrifice that should never be forgotten. read more