Lower Burrell seeks more than $100,000 for park improvements

Two of Lower Burrell’s premier parks could look a little different in the future.

According to City Councilman Chris Fabry, proposed improvements include cleaning and crack sealing the basketball courts at Burrell Lake Park and Officer Derek Kotecki Memorial Park, as well as installing a new acrylic sportsmaster coating and painting court lines.

The proposal includes new basketball hoops and backboards at Burrell Lake Park, nets for Kotecki Park and benches on and around the courts, Fabry said.

It also includes prepping the trail bed and paving the remaining walking trail at Kotecki Park, installing an underdrain around Burrell Lake Park and installing a new 10-foot fence around Burrell Lake Park’s basketball court.

But it all hinges on whether the state Department of Community and Economic Development approves a grant request for a little under $109,000.

City Council approved spending $19,192 for the project if the state money comes through.

The proposed projects’ total cost is about $128,000.

“It is important for the city to continue to explore these opportunities,” Fabry said. “There is plenty we can do in our parks system if we have the proper funding. Grants like this are vital for that progress.”

Fabry thanked Michelle Hatbob, the city’s parks and public works director; engineer Matt Pitsch; and interim City Manager Jason Dailey, along with their teams, for their efforts in applying for the grant.

“If this application is successful, there will be noticeable improvements to two of our marquee parks,” Fabry said. “Both Burrell Lake and Kotecki Park are continually utilized, and it will be nice to provide substantial upgrades to our residents.”