PLUMSTED: Park improvements to start in summer

by Vic Monaco, Managing Editor
   PLUMSTED – Major improvements are on the way for the township’s Recreation Park in New Egypt.
   Mayor Ron Dancer announced this week that the township has been awarded a $100,000 low-interest loan from the state’s Green Acres program.
   The money will provide for new fencing around the ball fields, drilling for an irrigation well, installation of underground sprinkler systems and new asphalt paving at the 30-acre park at Brindletown and Brynmore roads, the mayor explained.
   ”The improvements will begin this summer and be completed prior to the winter season, with care taken to accommodate scheduled games, events, etc.,” he said.
   Mayor Dancer further explained that the only water at the park comes from a private water company and is metered for the restroom usage and the snack bar.
   ”By drilling a well for irrigation purposes, the ballfields will be irrigated and suitable for tournament play,” he said. “Also, in the past, seeding and sodding have been tried, but to no avail because of the lack of irrigation. Some fields are not being utilized presently because the conditions are so poor with sparse grass areas.”
   The Green Acres funding is a 20-year loan at 2 percent interest, and covers the entire estimated cost of the project, the mayor said.