WEST SPRINGFIELD — A part of West Springfield’s recreational life is about to receive an overhaul.
On Oct. 22, the town of West Springfield announced a $425,000 state grant, awarded through the commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities, will be going towards improvements at the East Entrance of Mittineague Park.
The 10-acre East Entrance has been a part of Mittineague Park since it opened in 1930 and is also the first access point to each of the three park pavilions, which are used from May to October for private events like baby showers and birthday parties.
The PARC grant is administered through the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. EEA’s goal is to protect, preserve and enhance the commonwealth’s environmental resources while ensuring a clean future for Massachusetts residents.
“This is yet another example of how our administration continues to leverage local investment into something even better through successful grant opportunities,” West Springfield Mayor William Reichelt said. “The PARC grant allows us to turn our long-term vision for Mittineague park into reality, creating a safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable space for our residents.”
Sonia Manley, director of the West Springfield Park and Recreation Department, is overseeing brand new design aspects and identifying the park’s needs. Manley also talked about the importance of renovations to the park.
“Meaningful renovations allow us to thoughtfully improve Mittineague Park, whether by replacing and redesigning our playscape spaces or making the park walkways more accessible to visitors,” Manley said. “These changes will retain the park’s signature charm while strengthening its viability for decades to come.”
Planned renovations to the park include two ADA-compliant playgrounds, new restrooms, a splash pad, enhanced walkways, expanded parking, new shade and seating areas and improved stormwater management. They also look to reposition their 90-foot baseball diamond and 60-foot softball diamond.
“We will work in close collaboration with town leadership, engineer and designer GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc., and our Central Maintenance Department to execute this work,” Manley added.
One of the most important aspects of the upcoming renovation, according to Manley, is focusing on making the park significantly more accessible for the entire community.
“Our current walkways are aged and coarse from years of use, and the East Entrance’s limited parking availability can pose a challenge to our senior and disabled visitors,” Manley said. “The improved walkways and expanded parking options will significantly upgrade the walkability of this area.”
The new ADA-compliant playgrounds are a must have towards the push for inclusion, according to Manley. These playgrounds ensure accessible routes, such as ramps instead of stairs, accessible play components and appropriate safety to be usable by children with disabilities.
“We are excited about the two new playgrounds for our children,” Manley said. “The renewed focus on ADA accessibility for these spaces aligns with our mission to provide fun and recreation for everyone in our community.”
Manley believes the PARC grant is a massive win for West Springfield and is vital towards expanding the recreational community.
“We will be able to conduct meaningful enhancements to Mittineague Park at no cost to our residents,” Manley said. “The new fixtures will modernize our park while carrying on the recreational traditions that continue to make the area a destination throughout the region.”
Following design and permitting approval, construction should be expected to begin in 2026.
