Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz joined Deputy Commissioner of Parks James “Jimbo” McDonald, Deputy Commissioner of Recreation Nicole Ruberto, Supervising Park Ranger Chuck Bartlett, other Parks Department staff and representatives from the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy today next to Shelter #3 at Chestnut Ridge Park to cut the ribbon for the new Sensory Trail and review capital improvements made throughout the park.
The new trail, featuring sensory-friendly elements and interactive play zones, adds to a lengthy and varied list of improvements at Chestnut Ridge Park conducted by the Poloncarz administration since 2012 that totals over $9.2 million.
“Our parks system was once a laughingstock but my administration developed a vision to change that by restoring and improving parks countywide for residents and visitors to our region today and for generations to come,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Chestnut Ridge Park is another example of how a year-round destination can serve as a place for recreation, relaxation and seasonal fun. This park has long been a place to create wonderful family memories and the investments we have made over the past decade-and-a-half ensure it will continue to be a place for people to utilize for many years.”
The new Sensory Trail includes sensory-friendly elements, interactive play zones and covered areas to sit in the shade and for families to relax and enjoy a picnic. Erie County committed $183,549.45 for the project, with the funds used for site preparation, installation, concrete walkways, turf, universal picnic tables, shade structures, plantings and the Hunter Kelly sign, which honors the late son of retired Buffalo Bills quarterback and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jim Kelly. The playground equipment, which is safe to use for people of all ages and abilities, includes a crawl tunnel, a balance beam, sensory play panels and musical instruments. The project was made possible thanks in part to the dedicated members of Chestnut Ridge Conservancy and representatives from Kelly for Kids
Capital improvements at Chestnut Ridge Park include the resurfacing and improved lighting system at the tennis courts, two accessible playgrounds, various renovations to the Casino, a number of improvements to shelters and restrooms throughout the park, and the renovations at the fishing pier that made it accessible for everyone
A full listing of Chestnut Ridge Park capital improvements can be found here .
Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Forestry Troy P. Schinzel added, “The improvements made at Chestnut Ridge Park are just some of the many reasons people utilize the park and enjoy all that Chestnut Ridge has to offer. I also want to thank our community partners with Chestnut Ridge Conservancy and Kelly for Kids for their continued efforts to help make this desired destination even more attractive to visitors, whether they come to use the park for an hour or spend an entire day.”
Since 2012 and including RENEW Plan funding the Department of Parks, Recreation & Forestry has invested more than $62 million into the Erie County Parks System, which totals over 10,000 acres.
For more information:
On the Erie County Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry, visit https://www3.erie.gov/parks/
