Upgrades underway at Cribbs Field in Verona

Upgrades are underway at Cribbs Field in Verona.

Plum-based Pampena Landscaping & Construction demolished the old pavilion, and excavation was done in preparation of the new building. The park is off Second Street and South Avenue.

“It’s really exciting. It’s long overdue,” said Janet LoAlbo, councilwoman and parks and recreation chair. “It’s much needed for that building was about to fall.”

The old pavilion and restrooms were not up to Americans with Disabilities Act standards, among other issues.

The field is closed due to the construction, but the basketball court and playground are open. They have their own entrances along the outside fencing.

Youth soccer and baseball organizations such as Riverview Athletic Association and Lower Valley Athletic Foundation frequently use Cribbs Field.

“We just didn’t want anybody in the field playing and climbing on the equipment,” Mayor Dave Ricupero said. “When the project gets done, the park will be reopened.”

The borough received a $200,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development for the recreational upgrades. It is a matching grant with a $30,000 borough contribution.

Pampena was the lowest of five bidders.

The project is expected to be completed in April, weather permitting.

LVAF officials said they look forward to the new amenities and hosting events at Cribbs again.

“It will help us raise more money to run more programs for the town and help out more local families in need,” treasurer Timothy Long said. “It is my hope to be able to run larger events for Verona.”

LoAlbo said she hopes to use the field as part of the May celebrations of Verona’s 150th anniversary.

Details are still being worked out by the parks and recreation committee.