Jeannette's parks set for $1.2 million in improvements

Parks in Jeannette are slated for upgrades after the city was awarded a $1.2 million through the state Department of Community and Economic Development.

Chief fiscal officer Ethan Keedy said there are plans to improve several city parks, but the projects that get the green light will depend on certain factors, including cost and the level of impact. The improvements stem, in part, from citizen complaints about a lack of recreational opportunities for children, he said.

“This is the first of many steps we’re going to take in the direction of changing that mindset,” he said.

The proposed improvements include:

• Altman: Updates to the ballfield and walking track, a new playground, a splash pad and the paving of a gravel parking lot.

• Agnew: Improvements to the basketball court and installation of a bocce court.

• West Jeannette: New bleachers and replacing the field house roof.

• Surveillance cameras will be added to a few parks after city officials have received reports of crime and drug problems.

• Third Street: Upgrading equipment.

• Arlington: Removing overgrown vegetation and replacing equipment.

Councilwoman Robin Mozley said city officials made a list of projects they’d like to see funded through the grant.

“I am so excited about that,” she said. “That’s going to be wonderful.”

Keedy got a tentative OK from council to start the process to create a recreation commission. That will consist of eight to 10 people who will handle volunteer duties related to recreational events, such as parades. The group also will determine ways to maintain recreational opportunities for city residents, he said.