Neighbors from Broad Street told the City Council on June 3 that late‑night activity at Fairview Park — loud music, profanity, littering and groups gathering near the basketball court — has repeatedly disrupted sleep and public safety. Several residents asked the council to remove the basketball hoops and add school‑zone signage to reduce speed on the street adjacent to the school.

In committee, Parks Director Ben Strepka presented the Recreation Committee’s report and a multi‑year capital plan. Strepka listed major projects: ADA walkways and inclusive playground design, Phase 2 of the Abbey Brook revitalization (supplemented by a new $5,000 DER grant approved at the meeting), Zott Park PCB remediation and rink improvements, and future shade and pavilion work at Chicopee Memorial State Park in coordination with the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Strepka said many playgrounds are nearing the end of useful life and replacement will be staggered; some renovations will depend on grant funding while the city must allocate funds for sites not eligible for grants. He told the committee the parks division is understaffed (16 employees on staff against a budgeted 21), which constrains maintenance capacity.

Councilors and residents welcomed plans to relocate the Fairview Park basketball court and requested more signage and police patrols for evening hours. Councilor Brooks, representing the neighborhood, said parks staff had committed to keeping the relocation on the project list. The Recreation Committee’s report was received and placed on file.

Residents and committee members also discussed emerging equipment upgrades such as automated/robotic mowing and remote monitoring of facilities to reduce long‑term labor costs. The council encouraged staff to pursue grant funding where appropriate and to coordinate with state agencies on shaded structures and park improvements.