Grant Will Help Complete Alcombright Field Renovations
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Over the past several years, the West End park has seen major upgrades and fields added for softball, baseball, T-ball and soccer, along with better parking facilities. But construction on restrooms and storage facilities have been held up because of lack of funds and the state's fiscal condition.
"This funding will allow us to finish up a good portion of the work needed to complete renovations to Alcombright Athletic Field, which will meet the needs of over 600 children as well as adults," said Mayor John Barrett III.
Nearly a $1 million has already been spent on refurbishing and expanding the complex, named for the late City Councilor Daniel Alcombright.
The grant was announced by state Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, D-Pittsfield, and Rep. Daniel E. Bosley, D-North Adams.
"This grant is a crucial to continue developing the Alcombright Athletic Field complex and I am grateful that North Adams was selected as a recipient," said Bosley, adding that it will make "the facility more accommodating for visitors and [expand] the accessibility for alternative community use."
The $291,900 in funding comes from the Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities grant program (formerly the Urban Self-Help grant program), administered by the state's Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.
It will be used to erect a new building, equipped with concession, restrooms, storage rooms, and a garage/maintenance room.
"This funding provides for Phase III of renovations at Alcombright Athletic Field," said Downing. "Once complete, it will be a newly renovated venue and serve as the hub of local activities, sporting events and gatherings. I commend the Patrick administration for awarding these funds so the city can continue its work at the field."
Since its inception in 1977, PARC has helped cities and towns acquire and develop land for park and outdoor recreation purposes. The grants are administered through EEA's Division of Conservation Services and are available for the acquisition of land as well as construction and renovation of property for park and outdoor purposes such as athletic play fields, playgrounds and game courts.
Any town with a year-round population of at least 35,000, or any city regardless of size with a park or recreation commission is eligible to apply to the PARC program. With a finite amount of grant funds and an overwhelming application response, the selection process is highly competitive.
