Metro Parks Tacoma officials have announced they will rename McKinley Playfield in honor of a Tacoma couple instrumental in youth sports on the city’s eastside.

A public process to rename the park began last year when officials responded to reports of confusion among some residents over two public parks located so close to each other — McKinley Park, located at 907 Upper Park St., and McKinley Playfield, located at 4321 McKinley Ave.

Last week, Metro Parks Tacoma Board of Park Commissioners voted unanimously to rename the site “Verlo Playfield” in honor of Ben and Reba Verlo. The Verlos coached youth sports, advocated for the development of the former Boys and Girls Club on Tacoma’s eastside, and often provided a home for kids who didn’t have a place to stay.

Park officials plan to unveil new signage this summer.