There has been a good deal of discussion lately about Herrick Park. We want to make sure everyone knows the facts about Herrick Park.
Herrick Park was given to the residents of the village of East Hampton by a generous donor many years ago. It was intended to be shared with the school district and the residents alike as a place of community recreation. Over the years it has had many different uses in terms of athletic and other community events, but for the most part it is used by the school district for its Middle School students, as a community athletic venue, and as a peaceful place for children and families to walk, play, and enjoy the outdoors. It is a tranquil place of open space and peace in the midst of our commercial core.
Traditionally the school district has assisted in projects such as resurfacing tennis courts and other maintenance items, and the Village works closely with the school district on any changes or improvements to be made.
A few years ago two parcels of land adjacent to the park became available and the Village Board used Community Preservation Funds to acquire them. A third parcel, which creates an important connection, will be purchased in the near future through an agreement with the owner. We look forward to enlarging Herrick Park significantly with the addition of open space right in the heart of our beautiful village.
With the recent acquisitions enabling the enlargement of the park, it seemed appropriate to create a plan for re-imagining the way the property is used. Badly needed repairs along with the new acreage made this the perfect time to take a good look at the park and determine how to make the best use of it. While our consultant is still working on final plans, many improvements are being considered, including new placement for tennis courts, and the addition of walking paths and gardens where visitors can find peaceful places to relax and enjoy an oasis away from the center of the business district.
While final plans are being completed the Village is seeking grants and private funding to assist in this beautification project, and also welcomes suggestions and comments from the public.
Feel free to submit comments to:
Deputy Mayor Barbara Borsack
86 Main Street
East Hampton, NY 11937
Watch for news of the final design. We are confident that the re-imagined Herrick Park will be a wonderful addition to our village for the benefit of both our schools and the larger community.
