Essex residents advance Memorial Park tennis court project amid funding hurdles

The Essex Board of Selectmen meeting on May 19, 2025, focused on the progress of the Memorial Park tennis court project and the challenges surrounding funding and planning. Key discussions highlighted the need for further research and collaboration with engineering firms to move the project forward.

During the meeting, representatives detailed their extensive research efforts, including consultations with experts in tennis court construction. They received guidance from Sports Tech and Kim Turner, a special projects coordinator from Newburyport, who emphasized the importance of public bidding to secure competitive pricing. The team also engaged with local engineers, including Cassidy Krause and Brandon Kunkel, who confirmed the project's feasibility and provided cost estimates.

A significant point of contention arose regarding funding. The group reported having approximately $49,999 from a previous town meeting and an additional $57,000 in private donations. However, they faced a potential setback as Article 35, which sought to reallocate funds from the Memorial Park project to another initiative, was placed on the town meeting warrant. The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) ultimately recommended postponing this article to allow for continued support of both projects.

The discussion also revealed a pressing deadline for applying for a state grant from the Division of Conservation Services, which could provide up to $100,000 for the project. However, the town's outdated open space plan could hinder their ability to apply in time. The representatives expressed optimism about securing the necessary funding and completing the engineering phase within the next year, with hopes to begin construction by July 2027.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing commitment to revitalizing the tennis courts at Memorial Park while navigating funding complexities and planning requirements. The Board of Selectmen's support will be crucial as the project moves forward.