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| By Paula Canning Staff Writer CHICOPEE Improvements to the 14-acre Ray Ash Memorial Park will begin soon, now that that the city has been given an Urban Self-Help grant in the amount of $315,000. The city recently learned of the grant following an announcement from State Senator Michael Knapik (R - Westfield) and State Representative Joseph Wagner (D - Chicopee). '"The park last received an Urban Self-Help grant way back in 1989," said Knapik. "This award will allow the city to refurbish Ray Ashe Memorial Park for the first time in 16 years." Wagner said, "This state grant will allow the city of Chicopee to move forward with significant upgrades to the Ray Ashe Memorial Park. From improvements to the ball fields, to American with Disabilities Acts enhancements, to new play structures, this project will modernize all of the facilities at the park." Wagner said that Parks and Recreation Superintendent Stanley Walczak "deserves a great deal of credit for moving forward, not only with this improvement, but for advancing park improvements throughout the city. As a legislative delegation, we are happy to work with Stan to advance the recreational opportunities offered here in Chicopee." Knapik also praised Walczak, explaining that he was instrumental in bringing the application to fruition. "His advocacy will give the city the resources to expand its recreational offerings for children in the Aldenville section of Chicopee," Knapik said. The proposed enhancements to the park are as follows: New play equipment for 2-5 and 5-12 year olds. New skate park equipment to replace antiquated cement units. Upgrade of water spray features Additional park space Handicap access and improvements to comfort station and Olympic size pool. Upgrades to baseball and softball fields to include new backstops, bleachers, and player benches. Irrigation upgrades to existing. General park improvements to park benches, bubblers, lighting and other site amenities. The Urban Self-Help program, was established in 1977 to financially assist municipalities to acquire parkland, and to develop or renovate municipal parks. |