Council approves two 6-foot benches for Hooper9s Landing walking trail

The City Council on Aug. 12 approved concept plans to install two six-foot benches along the Hooper9s Landing walking trail, selecting locations near Locust Street (east of the Nanticoke Senior Center) and near the duck pond off Sussex Avenue. Parks and recreation superintendent Katie Hickey provided bench options supplied through a vendor; the six-foot model includes an optional center armrest that allows people to sit facing either direction and can deter lying across the bench. Council members discussed placement, nighttime lighting (security lights nearby), shading, and minor site adjustments such as moving split-rail fencing near the duck pond to set the bench back from Sussex Avenue. Trish Newcomer said funding would come from the golf reserve fund and parks staff will install the benches; council approved two benches with armrests. Staff noted they may add trash receptacles later if trail use produces litter. Why it matters: The benches aim to improve trail amenities and accessibility for walkers, senior residents and golf-course visitors. Next steps: parks staff will order the two 6-foot benches with armrests, prepare mounting (concrete pads), adjust fencing where needed, and notify council when benches are installed.