NARROWSBURG, NY — The children’s park on the Flats in Narrowsburg is getting an upgrade. The space will be turned into a multi-generational park as part of the Town of Tusten Master Plan. At a public hearing prior to the recent town board meeting on May 10, architect Buck Moorhead presented plans for the new park.

The multi-generational park plan has five elements: site modification, increased sports facilities, updated children’s playground, improved facilities and community amenities. A committee was formed to create the plan to enhance the existing park and focused on the goals and needs.

New walking paths along the perimeter of the site, which will create a quarter-mile loop, are a major part of the plan. One concern about the existing park is that there is not enough shade, and summer days can become too hot to enjoy the park. The new design includes shade trees, possibly willow. There will also be tall grasses planted as a safety barrier between play areas and adjacent roads.

There will be new features for kids to enjoy, including an airplane, expression swing, splash pad and mounds. Other sports areas will be upgraded for all to enjoy, including seasonal use of the ball field for soccer and volleyball, and new volleyball equipment and a horseshoe pit. The basketball court is currently in the process of being repaired.

An American with Disabilities Act accessible Port-A-Potty will be added to the existing Port-A-Potty, which will both be covered by “art screens.” A longer-term plan includes a covered pavilion (with a flood-resistant structure) for community events.

After Moorhead’s presentation, the board thanked him, and there was little public comment. One person mentioned that the park is in a flood plain, and the structures should be built to avoid flooding issues, such as removing structures or diverting mounds of dirt. Another person noted that willow trees have a soft wood and easily fall, and that sycamore trees would be a better replacement.

The town board passed a resolution to accept the plan as presented. The plan will be implemented within the next five years, with some features taking longer.