By Mike Schnitzel
On July 16, Councilman Anthony Santino (R-District 4) and Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray (R) were on hand to show off the new accoutrements, at an official grand opening. Included in the recent redevelopment are new adult and kiddie pools, a new bath house, outdoor showers, and sun shelters in the vicinity of the pool area.
"The reception to the beach has been universally positive and patronage is up," said Santino. "[Park workers] are telling me that on some days it's twice the norm."
Improvements for the park were funded by a portion of a $40 million town capital parks recreational bond. The most recent phase cost $3.5 million, while the first phase cost $621,000. The final phase, which is scheduled for completion before the next summer season will cost an estimated $2 million, according to Mike Deery, a spokesperson for the Town of Hempstead.
The park has been in the development stages for the better part of four years, according to Santino. The initial phase was completed in time for the last summer season when a new tennis court, basketball court, and state of the art children's playground were installed.
The final phase of the project will include a new administration building with community meeting rooms and a snack/concession stand to round out the improvements that have been made over the years.
"They did a wonderful job on the beach and the pool down there," said Mayor Joseph Carrigan. "It's a beautiful facility."
Photos by Andrew Vardakis/Herald
