Mayor Rand of Nyack has announced a series of extensive improvements to Memorial Park, set to enhance the community’s experience but with short-term accessibility impacts. These upgrades, fully funded by the County’s Rockland Resilient Recreation Grant Program and not by Village funds, are part of a long-term vision to revitalize the park for future generations.
Groundbreaking Changes: The central feature of these improvements is the complete restoration of the Great Lawn, often referred to as the village’s “Great Lawn.” This will involve re-seeding the entire area, including the small baseball field and pathways. The restoration, necessary for the lawn’s longevity, will unfortunately close the lawn until late summer, impacting summer activities.
Accessibility and Safety Upgrades: In a move towards inclusivity, an ADA-compliant access road and entry gate from Depew Avenue have been installed. Further enhancements include resurfacing parts of the playground with safety materials and installing new playground equipment for younger children. These upgrades, though temporarily limiting access, are aimed at providing a safer and more accessible environment.
Park Accessibility During Construction: Despite the disruptions, several park features will remain open, including the upper park lawn, public bathrooms, basketball court, skatepark, gazebo, waterfront picnic area, and viewing pier. Access may be limited occasionally due to ongoing construction.
Closure Timelines: The Great Lawn will be closed from mid-January to September for seeding and growth. The playground will also be temporarily unavailable from mid-January, expected to reopen in April or May. These closures, while inconvenient, are essential for the timely completion of the project.
Alternative Arrangements for Events: The annual Fourth of July fireworks will see a significant change, moving offshore to a barge in the Hudson. This alteration allows for a larger viewing area and increased visibility from various park locations. The “Music on the Hudson” concerts will continue on the upper lawn, maintaining the summer tradition.
Funding and Execution: The project, costing nearly $795,000, is financed by the federal American Rescue Plan Act through the County. The allocation includes funds for lawn restoration, access improvements, playground safety, and new equipment. The competitive bidding for construction was won by Paladino Concrete Creations, with design work by H2M Architects and Engineers.
Collaborative Decision-Making: The Village administration, Village Board, and Nyack Parks Commission, in conjunction with Rockland County, collectively decided on the improvements. These decisions were influenced by public input during multiple Village Board meetings in 2023.
The community is encouraged to visit the Village website for a detailed FAQ on the Memorial Park Work: Nyack Memorial Park Project Information.
While acknowledging the short-term inconveniences, Mayor Rand emphasizes the long-term benefits these improvements will bring to Nyack’s Memorial Park, making it a more accessible and enjoyable space for all.