EASTHAMPTON — The city has landed $400,000 in state grant funding to upgrade the pool area at Nonotuck Park.
The Nonotuck Pool project, which is a multiphase upgrade that will take place over the next six years, received the grant from the Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations Communities program administered through the Executive Office of Energy and Environment Affairs.
The project includes the installation of a permeable pool deck surface, shade structures and umbrellas, fencing, accessible parking, bike racks, an inclusive playground and an accessible path from the playground to the bathroom. The project will also include the planting of new trees and a demonstration rain garden with interpretive panels.
“It’s so great that the state got the awards out so early in the process — this helps tremendously,” said John Mason, director of the Parks and Recreation Department. “The Nonotuck Pool is the centerpiece of the jewel that is Nonotuck Park.”
Mason said the grant will be combined with funds from the city and Community Preservation Act to potentially leverage other grant funds. He added that he’s hopeful that the city will be able to go out to bid for the project by late spring or early summer, with construction starting shortly after.
“We are looking forward to this process that will bring a pool that meets the needs and serves so many residents, parks guests, and the kids that attend Camp Nonotuck,” he said.
Easthampton is one of 43 communities in the state to receive more than $12 million in funding for park improvements and open state acquisitions.
“Investing in these important open space projects will make Massachusetts parks more resilient to climate change, increase the availability of open space and improve access to the outdoors for people in communities across the state,” Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement.
Emily Thurlow can be reached at ethurlow@gazettenet.com.
