‘Super Park’ gets name change, presentation date
The Super Park has undergone a name change: meet the Grafton Community Park.
It also has a new video, a new website and — coming May 27 — an online presentation. The Grafton Recreation Department has listed 7 p.m. as the time, but does not give details on the online location.
The park, which would be located behind the Grafton Public Library, is intended as a replacement for the former Super Park, a fondly remembered wooden structure built by volunteers which was torn down in 2010 to make way for the new Grafton High School.
The first phase of the park, which would be funded by Community Preservation Act money, would include a large ADA compliant playground, a picnic pavilion, an open lawn, and dedicated parking. On the June 20 Town Meeting warrant, this comprises two articles: the first to request $250,000 from the CPC fund. The second would allow the town to bond approximately $700,000 over multiple years.
“The playground would be a universal playground, which would provide for the developmental needs of the whole child (every child) – physical, cognitive, communicative, social/emotional, and sensory,” the website for the proposal reads. “A universally accessible play environment is one that not only meets ADA requirements; it means an environment with inclusionary play areas that are designed for all children of all abilities and their families. Universally and inclusively designed playground environments are desired not only by families with children who have disabilities, but for community enhancement, overall; beautiful parks attract residents and businesses, and enhance property values.”
Later phases would add a zip line, nature trails that would require boardwalks over wetlands, a multi-sport court, a pavilion, bathrooms, a splash pad and a dog park. The final price tag is estimated to be $2.6 million.
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Spending money on this park, regardless of its name change is irresponsible and dangerous. The Rec Comm FY21 budget should be reduced until the October Town Mtg. Who is going to the parks? Who is going to the beach at Silver Lake? Who is willing to take their kids to a park for Arts and Crafts?
Whatever this amount of money is that could be saved could go to the School Dept who can use for their essential services ahead.