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Merrimack parks committee outlines waterfront ADA work, camp growth and volunteer-led projects
Summary
Tracy McGraw, chair of the Merrimack Parks and Recreation Committee, told the Town Council the committee will seek an extension to finish the ADA portion of the waterfront project, highlighted growing use of the dog park and summer programs, and announced director Matt Kasparius received the Wink Tapley award.
Tracy McGraw, chair of the Merrimack Parks and Recreation Committee, presented the committee’s annual review to the Town Council on April 24, outlining ongoing projects, volunteer contributions and staffing needs for summer programs.
McGraw said the waterfront project is nearly finished but that the committee will seek an extension to complete the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements. "We are trying to get the ADA portion of the waterfront done and we're going to file for an extension and get that done hopefully within the next year or 2," McGraw said.
She described other facilities and programs in regular operation: the tennis courts (striped and painted to accommodate pickleball), an active dog park that now attracts residents from neighboring communities, and multiple community events including a winter carnival, Easter egg hunt, summer concert series, Fourth of July celebration and holiday parade and tree lighting.
The committee reported several volunteer-led Eagle Scout projects: theater renovations at Wasserman by a Scout from Troop 10731 and a lean-to shelter in the dog park completed by a Courier from Troop 401. McGraw said the community garden will reopen and that Natakuk day camp registrations were higher than the previous year; she urged residents to apply for open camp-counselor, lifeguard and summer-maintenance positions (all must be at least 18 years old).
McGraw also highlighted organizational supports: local civic groups including the Lions Club, Rotary Club and Merrimack Friends and Family provide volunteers and fundraising. She praised Parks and Recreation Director Matt Kasparius, announcing that he received the Wink Tapley award for professional leadership in New Hampshire parks and recreation.
Councilors asked how the committee would complete ADA work and whether reservations or signage changes were needed for high-use areas. McGraw and Parks and Rec staff said Parks and Rec would coordinate with the Department of Public Works and will seek the required approvals before construction starts.
Ending: McGraw closed by thanking volunteers, department staff and the council for support and asked whether councilors had questions; none requested new action at that time.
