By GABRIELLA DRAGONE
PATERSON, NJ – $5.7 million received from federal COVID relief funds towards park improvement projects across the city was approved at the City Council’s Regular meeting on Tuesday.
The proposal was rejected earlier this year when some members of the council shared their concern that there was not a plan in place to spend the money being allocated.
15 local parks, including Commons Field which will be getting turf, fencing and lights, as well as an upgraded bathroom that will cost about $1.5 million, will see improvements.
“Like I always say, parks save lives for our children,” Councilwoman-at-Large Dr. Lilisa Mimms said. “It also provides opportunities to build our family.”
“This is a big, big win for our city,” Sixth Ward Councilman Al Abdelaziz said. “Any investment to our parks will hopefully keep kids off the street and give families something to do.”
Among the parks scheduled for improvements are:
- Commons Field – turf field, fencing, lights, bathrooms, concessions $1.5 million
- Roberto Clemente Park – Fence replacement $200,000
- Barbour Park – Playground landing pad, benches, bleachers for stage $150,000
- Lou Costello Pool – New Motor for filter, lifeguard stands, fencing $250,000
- Westside Park – Totowa Oval, turf field, lights $1.6 million