Upgrade for Splaine Park

The city has been awarded a $420,946 state grant to help fund improvements to Splaine Park. The grant was part of $14 million awarded to 25 communities statewide Tuesday to enhance parks and recreational facilities. The upgrade to the park, located behind the CVS on Essex Street, will include removal of overgrown vegetation and construction of a stone-dust bike/walking path around the perimeter. The plan also calls for improving the two main entrances; erecting new playground structures; renovating the baseball field; installing a new irrigation system; and rebuilding the bleachers and dugouts. The project also involves planting a community garden. The city will have to contribute $217,000 in matching funds. - John Laidler