`Something For Everyone’ In North Adams Park Renovation

Work is expected to begin next week on a comprehensive renovation of the city park at Noel Field on State Street, including a new spray park, expanded basketball courts and a host of other amenities.

"A big part of this project is that the city's goal is to make something for everybody," said Community Development Director Larysa Bernstein.

The Berkshire Eagle reports But until work is completed next summer, residents can expect occasional interruptions to use of the Noel Field Athletic Complex.

The park's tennis court is expected to be replaced with a new second basketball court, which will be separated by a set of bleachers from the current basketball court — which is also up for a complete renovation.

The city opted for a second basketball court instead of a replacement tennis court due to the increase in demand for basketball courts in the city, according to Bernstein. Alternatives for tennis include courts owned by the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Should it win grant funding, the city may include construction of a new tennis court in plans for Braytonville Park.

Inside the existing walking track at Noel Field, plans call for the construction of two pickleball courts beside the playground area, which is set to be expanded.

"Pickleball is increasingly popular among our population, as well as bocce ball," Bernstein said.

Opposite the playground from the pickleball area, plans call for construction of two bocce courts.

Nestled inside the track is a new spray park with several water-gushing features. Beside the spray park, crews will erect a 16-by-26-foot shade structure and patio.

The existing parking area, playground and walking track are slated to remain where they are. But the park will be lined with new tree plantings.

Work is expected to be complete by the end of June 2019.

The approximately $778,000 project is the second phase in the park's redevelopment.

In 2017, the city opened the new UNITY Skateboard And BMX Park, which, like the new phase of development, was funded through grants.

Funding for the project is split between two outside sources.

The first $400,000 is funded through the state's capital budget and awarded by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs' Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities grant program.

For the required match, the city will utilize Community Development Block Grant funds.