(4/24) This summer promises to be exciting at the Hamiltonban Fairfield Community Park. The Park Commission has received approval for a Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) grant in the amount of $74,800 toward completing Phase 3 of the Park establishment project. The grant was matched by numerous donors including Adams Electric Cooperatives. The Commission is in the process of reviewing a contractor proposal to complete the project and work is planned to begin this summer.
The Phase 3 planned work includes items that will enhance and expand the current Park facility, such as paving and lining the parking lot, expanding the walking path around the detention/runoff pond, construction of a pergola attached to the existing pavilion for additional shade, construction of a small pavilion near the natural playground area to house portable toilets, running water lines to the new pavilion and to the existing pavilion, and building a pickleball court.
Unfortunately, the grant and matching funds will not finance all the planned projects. According to the park commission, the pickleball court will have to wait for a future grant or donations. The commission believes the pickleball court would be great for the community and is always open to working with prospective donors.
As in other years, the Park will continue to host seasonal activities including Kite Day and Music In The Park Sunday evenings. Kite Day was held April 23, as before, Competitive Kite Flyer, Joe Whitmore, was on hand to demonstrate his kites and skills and to help everyone get their kites aloft. Everyone was encouraged to bring a kite, create a kite from kit or use one available from the Commission.
Music in the Park will return for the fifth year with events planned for the third Sundays of June, July, and August. Music events are open to the public and aim to provide entertainment for families and the community. There are no rain dates scheduled.
Sunday, June 19, "Cumberland Shakedown" will return with their high energy performance of covers and beautiful original tunes. Bruce Rowland and Jimmy Wilkinson, who make up Cumberland Shakedown, have played together for over a decade. Both are accomplished guitarists that complement each other and are sure to entertain throughout the evening. June 19, being Father’s Day, bring Dad out for great music and a special sweet treat.
Sunday, July 17, the Park will welcome for the first time "Seeds of Nostalgia" hosted by Joe and Betty Redding. Joe and Betty will be hosting their version of a closed performance showcase that includes live music. With a great following of singers and musicians, the evening promises to offer something for everyone.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Hamiltonban Township Office or Hamiltonban Fairfield Park Commission Chair John Strahler at 717-642-5858.
