Benton Parks tell plans for Touch-a-truck event

The Benton Parks and Recreation Department will host Touch-a-truck at 5 p.m. June 8, in parking lot two at the River Center in Benton.

This is a new event for the Parks.

“It is a family fun event where every kid, young or old, can touch and learn about different vehicles,” said Grant Watts, special events coordinator, adding that personnel will be on hand to tell visitors about the various vehicles.

There will be vehicles from the Benton Fire Department, Benton Police Department, Arkansas State Police, Saline County Sheriff’s Department, Waste Management District and the Arkansas National Guard. Watts also plans to have a bulldozer from the Arkansas Forestry Commission, a helicopter, a racecar, a limousine, an ambulance and a tow truck.

Watts said those who attend should be able to get in and check out most of the vehicles.

Watts came up with the idea after looking at events other communities hold.

“I thought it would be a great event to do here,” he said. Touch-a-truck is free to attend. Watts feels this event is a way for a child to dream big and see the sort of careers they could have when they grow up.

“It is a great opportunity for little kids to come experience and dream and learn and interact with personnel at each vehicle,” he said.

After the event, the Parks will host Movie in the Pool at 6:30 p.m. in the Aquatics Center, showing “Spiderman: Into the Spiderverse.” It is free for River Center members and $5 for nonmembers.

Limited concessions will be available in the River Center during both events.

Watts said he appreciates the department and the city for allowing them to do events and the people who attend.