$3.1 million renovation of Holyoke's Community Field kicks off with ground breaking ceremony

To pay for the work, which actually began a few weeks ago, the city borrowed $2.3 million and used $800,000 in state and federal grants.

The Republican | File photoCommunity Field.

HOLYOKE - Play areas and a place for dogs to run around will replace a park that has become known more for crime than recreation, officials said Friday at the ground breaking for a $3.1 million renovation of Community Field.

Renovations to the park off Cherry Street and beside Interstate 91 will include drainage improvements, lighting, a video security system, an ice skating path, walking paths, warming shelter, pavilion, picnic areas and a water spray, officials said.

"All of these things are going to be exciting for the city of Holyoke and its residents," Mayor Elaine A. Pluta said, before officials pushed shovels into a ceremonial mound of dirt.

To pay for the work, which actually began a few weeks ago, the city borrowed $2.3 million and used $800,000 in state and federal grants, said William D. Fuqua, superintendent of the Department of Public Works.

The work will take about a year, though officials hope the skating area is ready for the winter of 2012, said Teresa M. Shepard, Parks and Recreation Department director.

Ward 6 City Councilor Todd A. McGee has been pushing for the renovation for four years.

Among the officials McGree praised on the project was former Mayor Michael J. Sullivan.

In recent years, McGee said, Community Field became known for drugs, prostitution and street gangs.

"Well, that's not what we want here. That park belongs to all of us," McGee said.

McGee also said among those who deserve credit for getting Community Field to the point of renovation were Peter R. Leclerc, of the Parks and Recreation Department, and Shepard.

Also attending were state Sen. Michael R. Knapik, R-Westfield, state Rep. Michael F. Kane, D-Holyoke, provisional Fire Chief William P. Moran, acting Police Chief Frederick J. Seklecki, other city department heads and city councilors.

Moran was among those with fond memories of Community Field before it disrepair and crime took over. Moran said he met his wife Kathleen Moran of 23 years at Community Field when they were teen-agers. They have been together 31 years, he said.

"I met her down at the swing-set. I asked her to go to a concert," Moran said.