Committee approves master plan for recreation area at former school site
December 16, 2024 | Westerly, Washington County, Rhode Island
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In a recent meeting of the Westerly Town Council, the focus was on the development of a master plan for a local recreational area, a project that has garnered significant public interest and input. The atmosphere in the council chamber was charged with anticipation as officials and community members gathered to discuss the future of the site, which has undergone considerable changes since the demolition of the former school.
David, a representative involved in the planning process, presented a detailed overview of the steps taken to create the master plan. He emphasized the importance of public engagement, noting that the team had conducted a public forum and an online survey that attracted over 300 responses. This feedback was instrumental in shaping the proposed designs, which aim to enhance recreational opportunities while addressing existing site challenges, such as elevation differences and drainage issues.
The proposed master plan includes various features, such as a playground, parking lot, and potentially a skate park, which has been a topic of discussion among local youth and the recreation department. The council members expressed their appreciation for the thoroughness of the planning process, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the committee and the public.
One of the key points raised during the meeting was the estimated cost of implementing the master plan, which stands at approximately $5.55 million. This figure encompasses necessary improvements, including grading and drainage enhancements, to ensure the site is suitable for recreational use.
As the discussion progressed, council members sought clarification on specific elements of the plan, such as the differences between various types of pump tracks and the proposed elevation adjustments for the tennis courts. David explained that the plan aims to utilize existing soil to level the area, thereby minimizing the need for additional materials.
The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the project, as council members recognized the potential benefits of the master plan for the community. With the groundwork laid and public input integrated, the council is poised to move forward with the next phases of engineering and landscape architecture, paving the way for a revitalized recreational space that reflects the desires of Westerly residents.
David, a representative involved in the planning process, presented a detailed overview of the steps taken to create the master plan. He emphasized the importance of public engagement, noting that the team had conducted a public forum and an online survey that attracted over 300 responses. This feedback was instrumental in shaping the proposed designs, which aim to enhance recreational opportunities while addressing existing site challenges, such as elevation differences and drainage issues.
The proposed master plan includes various features, such as a playground, parking lot, and potentially a skate park, which has been a topic of discussion among local youth and the recreation department. The council members expressed their appreciation for the thoroughness of the planning process, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the committee and the public.
One of the key points raised during the meeting was the estimated cost of implementing the master plan, which stands at approximately $5.55 million. This figure encompasses necessary improvements, including grading and drainage enhancements, to ensure the site is suitable for recreational use.
As the discussion progressed, council members sought clarification on specific elements of the plan, such as the differences between various types of pump tracks and the proposed elevation adjustments for the tennis courts. David explained that the plan aims to utilize existing soil to level the area, thereby minimizing the need for additional materials.
The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the project, as council members recognized the potential benefits of the master plan for the community. With the groundwork laid and public input integrated, the council is poised to move forward with the next phases of engineering and landscape architecture, paving the way for a revitalized recreational space that reflects the desires of Westerly residents.
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