The Town of Clarence is currently in the midst of a comprehensive renovation of Fogelsonger Park, aimed at enhancing amenities for both new and long-time residents in the area. Recognizing the importance of providing updated recreational facilities, the Town Board approved the development of several key improvements.
Last May, a construction contract was awarded for a new pavilion – modeled after the one at Town View Park but slightly smaller. This new facility is nearing completion and is expected to be open to the public by June 1. It will accommodate events for up to 90 guests under the main roof, with additional picnic seating for groups of up to 130. The pavilion will feature an upgraded kitchen and dining area, modernized restroom facilities, and a storage garage for parks equipment.
In preparation for new athletic courts, several trees along the Greiner Rd. side of the park were removed this spring. The area will soon feature brand-new basketball, tennis, and highly requested pickleball courts. To support these additions, a new parking lot is being constructed off Greiner Road. The courts will include lighting and will be available for public use until 11:00 p.m. during the summer months.
To improve pedestrian access, a walking trail and bridge are planned to connect Fogelsonger Park to the Eastern Hills Church parking lot, a route already commonly used by nearby residents. A new entrance and parking area off Glenwood Dr. are also being developed, allowing residents from the south side of the park to access it without leaving their neighborhood. Combined with the new sidewalk along Greiner Rd., these improvements will allow residents to walk for miles safely, away from busy roads.
Plans are also underway to refresh the playground area. In addition to new, modern playground equipment, the Town is exploring the possibility of relocating the beloved Robert Leathers-designed playground from Harris Hill Elementary School to Fogelsonger Park. Leathers, often referred to as the “Frank Lloyd Wright” of playground architecture, introduced the now-popular “shoulder-to-shoulder” play design. Built in 1989 through a community effort, this unique structure continues to attract families from across the region.
With the school district planning to replace the existing playground at Harris Hill Elementary, the Town is working with Leathers' design group to evaluate the feasibility of moving the structure. GPS mapping technology allows the layout to be accurately recreated, though careful planning will be required to dismantle and transport it. If successful, the playground could serve a third generation of children at its new home in Fogelsonger Park.
In addition to the Fogelsonger Park updates, Harris Hill Sunset Park will soon receive a surface overlay for its well-used tennis and basketball courts. These courts have experienced more wear than others in town, likely due to shading from nearby spruce trees. As part of the resurfacing project, these trees will be trimmed or removed. The courts will also receive new fencing and striping to restore them as premier recreational facilities.
The Town remains committed to maintaining and enhancing our parks for all residents. We are proud of these improvements and look forward to seeing families and neighbors enjoy these revitalized spaces in the months ahead.