In the News

SPRINGFIELD -- The city formally launched a $600,000 renovation project at Van Horn Park in Liberty Heights on Tuesday that includes new playground equipment and a small pavilion, aided by federal grant funds.

The contractor, Omasta Landscaping of Hadley, was joined by local officials and residents including Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, during the groundbreaking ceremony.

The funding consists of a $300,000 federal grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, $150,000 in federal Community Development block grant money, and $150,000 in city funds, as detailed in August.

"The improvements will be a welcome addition to the Liberty Heights and Atwater neighborhoods," Sarno said. "The project illustrates the importance of having a master plan ready so when grants do come available we are ready to participate in the application process."

The renovations includes new playground equipment, site amenities and exercise stations, and the small pavilion, officials said.

The funding follows a master plan for redevelopment of Van Horn Park, located on Armory Street, Sarno said.

The cost of $600,000 included construction, design and the purchase of the pavilion and some equipment from vendors to save money, said Patrick J. Sullivan, the city's director of parks, buildings and recreation management.

The construction contract was for $274,475, and the work is slated to be completed in the summer of 2019.

Prior improvements have included enhanced pedestrian paths around the upper reservoir, a new entrance and parking from Armory Street, site amenities upgrades, and the rebuilding of the lower dam, officials said.

Neal said the federal grant from the National Park Service helps fund a very significant recreational project in Springfield, and helps improve the quality of life for residents.

"When completed, the renovations to Van Horn Park will help improve a vibrant urban open space that the residents of the Liberty Heights and Atwater neighborhoods will enjoy for years to come," Neal said.

Sullivan said the federal grant funds "are a lifeline to urban park systems," culminating a comprehensive plan for Van Horn Park. The city will continue to search for future grant funds for the Carp Pond and upper dam, he said.

Brian Santaniello, chairman of the Park Commission, said the grant funds are great news for visitors to Van Horn Park.

"The park improvements will ensure for quality playground, picnic and splash pad area," Santaniello said. "By local, state, federal government and the business community working together, we can make great things happen for our city."