VILLAGE OF LANCASTER TO HOLD GROUNDBREAKING FOR NEW DOWNTOWN POCKET PARK
Project Funded Through the State’s NY Forward Program
LANCASTER, NY – The Village of Lancaster is holding a groundbreaking ceremony to commemorate the construction of a new pocket park on Friday, August 7th at 10 AM in the Village’s Central Business District. The event will take place at the park’s future location between the Lancaster Municipal Building at 5423 Broadway and Picasso’s Pizza.
The design and construction of this project are made possible through a $206,000 award from the New York Department of State’s NY Forward Program. When completed, the park will provide a vibrant pedestrian walkway from the public parking lot behind the Municipal Building, leading visitors to the sidewalk on Broadway and on to the Village’s revitalized downtown core. In addition to the path, the pocket park will contain landscaping, bistro lighting, and seating areas to create a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.
Construction of the park is scheduled to begin in mid-August with completion anticipated in the fall. Overseeing the design and construction of the project is LaBella Associates, with construction performed by Miller Construction.
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Public gathering spaces are often the glue that holds together a downtown revitalization effort. This pocket park will provide a safe, comfortable and accessible place for people of all ages and backgrounds to gather and enjoy the burgeoning vibrancy of downtown Lancaster.”
Mayor William C. Schroeder said, “The new pocket park will transform a previously seldom-used and bland area into an appealing area for users to take a break, relax and to perhaps enjoy a quick lunch in a much more inviting atmosphere. We are grateful for our funding opportunities and will maximize this project for all to enjoy.”
Village Trustee Gavin J. O’Brien said, “I appreciate the Lancaster Fire Department Chiefs, Historic Preservation Commission, Planning Commission, Lancaster Beautification, the Village of Lancaster staff and officials, and others who provided thoughts and suggestions about the design of this future park. Their feedback will soon become a reality and a special place in our Village.”
Picasso’s Pizza owner Marc DiGiore said, “After owning and operating our business for 43 years in the Village of Lancaster, we are beyond thankful for the patronage. We are excited to be part of the next chapter with the addition of this beautiful pocket park.”