County commissioners agreed Tuesday to advance a conceptual $28 million redesign of County Park East that would add pickleball courts, a multiuse field, expanded parking and a pre‑engineered steel fieldhouse with locker rooms and a walking track. The project will also include upgrades to the existing Law Enforcement Memorial and requires Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA) approval before final design work can proceed.

The plan, presented by Melillo‑Bauer‑Carman Landscape Architects, calls for a multi‑level metal athletic facility and an open‑air multiuse field. Director Desiderio said the project grew out of the Ad Hoc Committee on Recreation and is intended to expand public recreational opportunities for youth in the county.

The project’s estimated $28 million total cost and recommendation of a pre‑constructed metal building over an air‑supported structure were explained during the presentation. The firm said the pre‑constructed building was selected for longevity and resistance to weather‑related issues. The architect also described the fieldhouse as divisible for high school and smaller youth play configurations.

Commissioner Morey conditioned his approval on two items: that staff provide supporting data for the proposed scope and scale, and that the Board hold further discussions about potential funding participation by the Open Spaces Trust. Commissioners agreed the Board should pursue CAFRA approvals next; the firm said it is assembling materials for that submission.

Board members and staff discussed whether Open Space funding could be used for the project to avoid double‑dipping taxpayers; the Board agreed to follow up. County Counsel contrasted the county park proposal with the Aviation Sports Complex, saying the airport facility is intended to be a revenue‑generating, tournament‑type venue, while County Park East is for public recreation.

Rob Miller, a Wildwood resident and public commenter, later praised recent field renovations at County Park East during the public comment period, saying the upgrades enabled a youth baseball program to expand this year. County staff and volunteers were publicly credited for on‑the‑ground work preparing fields for youth use.

Next steps: Melillo‑Bauer‑Carman will pursue CAFRA review and the County will supply Morey’s requested data and discuss Open Space Trust participation before final Board approval and a planned timeline that puts groundbreaking at about 12 months after approvals are secured.