Plans are finally proceeding for a new green space in Armstrong.
A concept plan for Huculak Park, located downtown between Patterson Avenue and Willowdale Drive, was introduced in the summer of 2012 with council of the day endorsing a final park design in September 2012.
Council has voted to include Phase 1 planning and implementation to the tune of $72,000 in its 2016 budget deliberations.
“It’s been four years on the table,” said Coun. Steven Drapala with the city’s planning and development committee.
“Preparatory work on Phase 1 of the three-phase plan, known as The Foothills, was done, complete with installation of basic infrastructure and planting.”
Phase 1 would cost an estimated $72,000 and would include extension of water service from Patterson through the lane along with installation of irrigation with capacity for future phases. That would be done in the spring, as would having potable water extended to the park’s entrance off the lane, fencing, final site grading and planting of trees and shrubs.
Other parts of Phase 1 to be concluded before the year is out include installing post and rail fencing along the park’s riparian corridor and preparation of a pedestrian bridge over Meighan Creek.
Community groups have come forward with further suggestions for inclusion in the park’s overall design.
Phase 2 would be called the Riparian Screen and Phase 3 would be termed The Orchard.
“There is going to be great opportunities for everybody,” said Mayor Chris Pieper.
“There will be volunteer opportunities, opportunities for the heritage committee and opportunities for contract work.
