URGENT UPDATE: The City of Hazleton is actively seeking public input to revitalize Pagnotti Field and Columbus Playground, with a crucial public meeting scheduled for November 20 at noon at City Hall. A consultant from Barry Isett and Associates, Nicole Keegan, is encouraging community members to share their ideas for improvements that address longstanding issues at the park.
Currently, Pagnotti Field, which hosts a popular Sunday softball league and weekday baseball clinics, is missing essential amenities like restrooms. Additionally, Columbus Playground features outdated equipment and lacks accessible pathways as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act. “We’ll be looking at ADA access, universal design, and also creating a vision for the park,” Keegan stated, emphasizing the need for community involvement in this revitalization process.
Hazleton’s efforts come in response to feedback from local users. Junior Reyes, who manages the Hazleton Softball League, highlighted the need for a second ballfield to accommodate more games and potentially host tournaments. “If we could get bathrooms, you could imagine how helpful that would be,” Reyes noted, revealing that renting portable toilets costs the league around $120 a month.
The current condition of the playground equipment has raised concerns among residents. Keegan described the equipment as “very old and noncompliant,” urging the need for upgrades. The public meeting will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss and share ideas, while those unable to attend can contribute via a designated survey created by Barry Isett.
Access to the park has been another challenge, with first-time visitors struggling to navigate one-way streets leading to the area. Keegan’s observations underscore the need for better signage and parking solutions, as visitors often leave vehicles along surrounding streets such as Garfield, Arthur, and Cleveland.
To fund the study, Hazleton has secured a $37,000 grant, which requires a match. Keegan confirmed that the study aims to produce a comprehensive master plan for phased implementation of improvements. “What we really want to do is hear from the public,” she reiterated, inviting everyone to contribute to the future of these beloved community spaces.
This initiative is not just about enhancing facilities; it represents a commitment to fostering a healthier, more accessible environment for families and sports enthusiasts in Hazleton. As the public meeting approaches, the city is poised to take significant steps toward transforming Pagnotti Field and Columbus Playground into vibrant community hubs.
Stay tuned for updates as Hazleton residents rally to reshape their local park experience!
