Officials advance Iron Spring and Kelly Park planning and seek New York State Parks grant

Village officials described conceptual designs and a grant application timeline for renovations at Iron Spring Park and Kelly Park following a Park and Tree Board presentation.

Trustees said representatives from Studio A (identified in the meeting as Jeff and Anthony) presented ideas for playground replacement at Kelly Park, a shaded gazebo area for parents, relocation of the dog park to improve safety separation from playgrounds, pavilion renovations and trail improvements near the creek. At Iron Spring Park the consultants suggested stone seating and an informal amphitheater, improved accessibility, safer creek fencing, and possible blue emergency call boxes along the trail.

The trustees directed staff to expedite a concept package for the New York State Parks grant application, which trustees said will be due July 31. The board noted the grant program can fund planning and construction elements and that awards can be as large as $675,000; trustees asked staff to confirm match requirements and other grant details before the next meeting.

Why this matters: The proposal would seek state funds to renovate local parks used by residents for recreation and community events. If funded, the improvements would affect playground safety, trail access and amenities.

Timeline and next steps: Trustees said they expect a proposal from consultants to appear on the July 28 meeting agenda, with planning work aimed at making application materials available for the July 31 grant deadline. Park and Tree Board members will continue to refine concepts and prioritize elements to fit the grant's eligible activities.

Financial context: Trustees discussed grant match uncertainty and said they will provide a clearer breakdown of match and budget allocations before formal approval. One trustee noted parts of the project would be funded from the parks budget; other elements might require additional funding sources.