MILLSTONE – The first phase of construction at Millstone Park, Red Valley Road, has been deemed complete by the Township Committee.
The development of the 186-acre recreation facility in Millstone Township has been ongoing since 2016. That year, committee members adopted an ordinance appropriating $4.5 million for the first phase of improvements at the site that would become Millstone Park.
On Jan. 15, the committee members passed a resolution authorizing the completion of the phase one improvements and a closing statement to the Monmouth County Municipal Open Space Grant Program, which provided $250,000 to Millstone for the improvements in 2015.
The first phase of the park’s development has consisted of site work and grading, the construction of a park building and the installation of lights at three general purpose fields, according to municipal officials.
According to the resolution, Millstone has spent $4.42 million for the projects. There is one payment being withheld until the turf that has been placed at the park shows significant growth for two seasons. The payment being withheld to the contractor, Meco Inc., totals $196,191.
Millstone Park will have nine general purpose fields which can be used by multiple sports programs. Six fields are planned to have lights, according to plans for the park.
The park building will have restrooms and a kitchen serving facility, but no stoves. Cooking will be provided by a portable food cart as needed.
Other features at Millstone Park are expected to include a trail that can be used for walking, jogging and horseback riding, a playground, and a boat-accessible pond that can be used for fishing and irrigation, according to township officials.